THE police’s Bureau of Special Investigation has commenced a probe into the killing of two men during pre-dawn police operations in Olympic Gardens, Kingston 11, yesterday morning.

The dead men were identified as Oran Wright, 20, of Rhoden Crescent, and Dennis Simmonds, alias Deportee, 26, of West Guango Crescent.

The Constabulary Communications Network said that between 4:30 am and 8:00 am, operations were carried out in the Simmonds Park and Rhoden Crescent, areas of Kingston 11. White, the police said, was reportedly seen at the premises in Simmonds Park, and after being accosted he allegedly pointed a firearm at the lawmen and was shot and injured. A 9mm pistol with its serial number erased and five rounds of ammunition were taken from him, the police said.

In the second incident, Simmonds, according to the police, was seen with a gun along Rhoden Crescent and when challenged he reportedly opened fire on members of the police party. Gunfire was returned injuring him. A .38 revolver, with its serial number erased, and five rounds of ammunition were taken from him.

Both men were subsequently taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where they died while undergoing treatment.

However, residents of Olympic Gardens said both men, who were said to be community leaders, were murdered by the police.