KINGSTON, Jamaica — A man who was named as a person of interest was reportedly held with an illegal firearm during a snap raid by the police in Craig Town, St Andrew Thursday afternoon.

It is alleged that Ian Dacres, otherwise called ‘Lucky’, said to be a resident of Dumfries, St Thomas, was held with a 9mm pistol with a magazine containing 19 cartridges.

Head of the Kingston Western Police Division, Senior Superintendent (SSP) Michael Phipps, said Dacres is believed to be a major player in the ongoing gang conflict in the community.

The 110 and Gaza gangs have been involved in a bloody turf war over recent months, resulting in several murders and shootings.

Police reported that the war had taken an even deadlier twist as the gangs, whose members are known to each other, have sought and acquired help from gunmen from outside communities.

A 48-hour curfew imposed in Craig Town on Monday night had been extended for another 48 hours.

“The JCF and the JDF have been continuing our operational activities within the Craig Town area and we have been achieving some successes,” SSP Phipps shared.

Reports indicated that Dacres, who was named as a person of interest in the gang war in Craig Town, was seen on Baker Street when he was searched and the firearm found in his waistband.

“It is believed that he is linked to several criminal activities within the St Thomas Division. So, we will be collaborating our efforts with the St Thomas police to determine what charges can be laid against him,” Phipps disclosed.