ST CATHERINE, Jamaica— The security forces operating in the St Catherine North Police Division, which is currently under a state of emergency (SOE), are urging residents to resist extortion attempts by individuals linked to arrested Klansman gang leader, Andre “Blackman” Bryan.

The SOE, which was yesterday extended to July 3, was imposed on March 18 as part of efforts to stem ongoing and rising criminality in the area.

According to the police, intelligence reports indicate that individuals loyal to Blackman have been increased extortion demands on residents in the St Catherine North area as part of an effort to generate funds for the gang leader’s legal defence.

The security forces are making a special appeal 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 of these illegal activities, to call the JDF tip line at 837-8888.

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Clifford Blake, “extortion is one of the crimes that we will be going all out to eradicate from our communities and business districts”. Blake further stated that “we will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate law-abiding citizens in St Catherine”.

Residents of Spanish Town, Linstead, Bog Walk and surrounding areas within the St Catherine North Police Division are being urged to give information the JDF Tip Line, which is a secured line or by calling Crime Stop at 311 and 811.