UPDATE: Four listed as wanted among several people taken into custody
WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — Four people listed as wanted are among several individuals taken into police custody during a major operation dubbed ‘Operation Reassurance’, aimed at reassuring residents of police support towards creating and maintaining a low crime environment.
Among the four is Nicholas Muthra of Benta district, Withorn, Westmoreland. He was held in Hartford in the parish also.
Muthra was linked to the November 10, 2024 murder of Iwayne Bennett, otherwise called ‘Mad Dog’ in Bastard Cedar Walk.
The others are wanted for other offences.
In addition, two people of interest from the Corporate Area were also taken into custody.
Preliminary reports, late Wednesday afternoon from the police who were on an all-day operation, have also indicated that several people were arrested after lottery scam paraphernalia were found. Charges are pending against them.
An individual was also taken into custody for dealing in marijuana.
According to Commanding Officer for Westmoreland Superintendent Othneil Dobson, the police need the continued support of residents in apprehending wanted men.
“They are wanted for various crimes, and these persons, if not arrested, will continue to contribute to crimes within the division. So, we are urging the citizens to assist the police. Police cannot do it on their own,” argued Superintendent Dobson.
Wednesday’s operation team comprises some 124 personnel from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Defence Force, the Area One Fugitive Apprehension Team, Highway Patrols and the Transport Authority.
Among areas of concentration were Morgans Bridge, Frome, Whithorn, Savanna-la-Mar, and Negril. These areas are said to be a major contributor to crime within the parish.
Meanwhile, the superintendent had words of encouragement for the public during the Yuletide season.
“We are asking the citizens to drive with the necessary documents for their vehicles. We are asking riders of motorcycles to ride with their helmets and help us to make the season a safe season,” stated Superintendent Dobson.
— Anthony Lewis
