Police make major dent in St. James crime syndicate

 

The St. James police have smashed what is believed to be a major criminal network, which has been targeting Chinese-operated businesses in the parish. 

 

Speaking at a press briefing Thursday afternoon, Deputy Superintendent in charge of crime, Michael Moore, said the police have arrested more than a dozen members of the criminal syndicate.

 

"The parish was experiencing an upsurge in robberies. Now, through operations and investigations, we have been able to make a significant dent. We have arrested more than a dozen perpetrators who we believe forms (sic) part of a syndicate that is operating in the St. James area. Recently, we had five arrested and firearms were seized from them. These men mainly targeted our Chinese business community. And I can say with confidence right now, the Chinese business community is breathing a sigh of relief because we have arrested and charged these persons and they are presently in custody," DSP Moore reported.

 

He said there has been a significant reduction in murders and shootings in St. James since the start of the year.

 

"We have made significant strides. As it relates to our murders, we have arrested a number of persons for murders. Our clear up rate presently is over 70% and as it relates to shootings, we are over 60%. Now, as it relates to our wanted persons, we are experiencing significant success where that is concerned. A number of our wanted persons have been arrested and charged."

 

But the senior cop admitted that the police could not have done it alone, praising law-abiding citizens for their support.