KINGSTON, Jamaica — An operation involving a joint team consisting of members of Jamaica Constabulary Force Specialized Operations and the Jamaica Defense Force led to the arrest of two men in Bull Bay, St Thomas on Monday.

Charged with illegal possession of firearm and ammunition are Leroy Farquharson, otherwise called Sloonie, 19; and Jowine James, 28, both of 11 Miles.

The operation was carried out in the Lane Gate community of 11 Miles.

“Operating on credible intelligence, the security forces went into the community aiming to disrupt the activities of members of both the Lane Gate Faction as well as the Tank Well Gang. It is understood that the two rival gangs have been engaged in violent confrontations recently and were planning to commit several violent crimes in the days to come,” the constabulary said in a release.

During the early morning operation, the security forces searched several premises and interviewed more than 20 individuals. At the end of the operation 13 people were taken into custody.

“Five men were held on reasonable suspicion of committing a crime, including two for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. One Browning Beretta 9mm pistol along with five 9mm rounds were seized,” the police said.

Meanwhile, the police are asking Zanni Peterkin, otherwise called ‘Zazza’, and Nesta Morrison, otherwise called ‘Bigga’ or ‘Grimey Boss’ to visit the Specialized Operations Branch, as it is believed they both can be of assistance to the investigation of several major crimes in the St Thomas division.