KINGSTON, Jamaica — Members of the Police High Command, senior officers, and members from the Community Safety and Security Branch met with residents in the West Kingston community of Rose Town on Wednesday to address security concerns amidst heightened tension in the area.

Superintendent of Police Howard Chambers, in charge of the Kingston West Division, said a recent surge in crime and violence has caused him to implement stringent measures within Rose Town and called for partnership with the residents in restoring peace.

“I am not too pleased with what is happening; when I came to Kingston West I was told that Rose Town is one of the most peaceful communities in the division,” Superintendent Chambers said.

“As of lately I am forced to implement strategies of restriction. Persons have to be monitored, we have to stop issuing dance/entertainment permits, even though it is the livelihood of persons here, but we cannot have these events unless the violence or the potential for violence is eradicated,” he added.

Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Dr Carl Williams, in his address to residents, echoed sentiments shared by Chambers.

“I was pleased for the last three years how Rose Town has come along, but now persons are not able to leave their homes due to crime and violence. We have to bring this community back to what it was. I am determined to work with you to bring back peace to this community,” said Williams.

Additionally, Williams called on residents, especially the youth, to walk away from people who they may believe have wronged them.

“No good can come out of revenge, you can get justice if you work with the police and get the information to us,” said Williams.