JUTC bus drivers charged for alleged fuel theft, C-TOC investigating possible link to gang activities

Detectives assigned to the Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigations Branch (C-TOC) have charged two drivers employed by the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) with multiple counts of simple larceny following separate incidents involving the alleged theft of fuel from the bus company.

Charged are 34-year-old Shavay Brown, otherwise called ‘Shabb’, and 38-year-old Dushaine Brown, otherwise called ‘Shaine’.

Reports from the police are that on two occasions, Shavay Brown diverted a JUTC bus to Chesterfield Drive in St Andrew, where he extracted 100 litres of fuel.

The police say on March 13, the JUTC bus he operates was intercepted after leaving the location where the fuel was extracted.

Following an interview on Monday, March 17, he was charged with two counts of simple larceny.

Meanwhile, Dushaine Brown was arrested on Thursday, March 20, after it was revealed that on February 17, 20 and 23, he diverted a JUTC bus to locations in Spanish Town, St Catherine where over 500 litres of fuel was extracted, according to the police.

He was charged with three counts of simple larceny.

The police say the investigation came under the purview of C-TOC investigators following its possible link to organised criminal elements.

“Fuel theft on this scale represents a significant loss to the economy and ultimately impacts all tax-paying citizens,” said Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC.

“We are committed to dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring the protection of public resources. We are actively pursuing all leads and anticipate further arrests as the investigation progresses,” he added.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.