Concern has been raised that the fear factor may hamper the investigation by the authorities into reports that the Clansman gang has increased its extortion activities to fund the legal defence of its leader who has been arrested.
The concern was raised by Dennis Robotham, President of the St. Catherine Chamber of Commerce.
In a statement Wednesday morning, the police and military said persons loyal to Andre “Blackman” Bryan, are making increased extortionary demands on residents in the St. Catherine North area.
The security forces are urging persons to resist extortion attempts by individuals linked to Mr. Bryan.
But Mr. Robotham says those being extorted are afraid to speak up.
“The onus is on the person being extorted to bring it to the authorities, the police in particular, but because of fear, that is not happening,” he asserted.
He suggested that in order to crack the extortion ring, there might be a need for “serious undercover work” and the use of technology such as hidden cameras.
Mr. Robotham said although extortion in the division has declined, he fears the aftermath when the special security measures in St. Catherine North have ended.
“Word is on the road that as soon as the police and the security forces leave, people going affi to pay retroactively. That is what I’m hearing on the ground,” he declared.
The security forces are appealing to residents in the division who may have information on individuals who are involved in extortion, including facilitators who are receiving money and those who benefit from the proceeds to call the JDF tip line at 837-8888.
of course ppl are afraid to talk, because all the police and politicians involved.. this need a special undercover investigation team with MOCA for this ring to stop.
There is no way extortion could hv flourished the way it has in spanish town without police involvement. Police are behind it as well.
Inspector and politician first on the list Dem get Dem cut that not stopping no time soon…
Everytime Blackman get lock up him come a Rd why the police dont wait until Dem have real evidence on him Dem lock him up…
Or assassinate his ass. In cases where dangerous Dons keep getting off, they need to take them out quietly…..there is no other way. The other Clansman leader have been living on borrowed time. They are responsible for far too many deaths.