ST MARY, Jamaica— Two teenagers were arrested and charged for a number of break-ins in the Port Maria town centre in St Mary. The stolen items were recovered in St Ann.

According to police sources, the teenagers, both 18-year-olds, were standing near a shop in the Port Maria town centre on Wednesday where their actions aroused the suspicion of the police. The teens were searched and a steel cutter was found in their possession.

They were taken into custody where they confessed to committing six break-ins in the town centre and hiding the stolen items in St Ann.

The police, following up on the information given, conducted a raid in Parry Town, St Ann where the stolen items were recovered.

One business owner Sheryl lamented that since the police station has been relocated there has been an increase in criminal activities in the town centre.

“I don’t feel safe after certain hours. You don’t know which business will be the next target. You go home wondering if your business is next. Need to see the police right through the day and night right now,” the business owner said.

Commanding officer for the parish, Superintendent Anthony Wallace, sought to reassure the business community and the public that the men and women under his charge are committed to keeping the town centre safe.

“We are committed to the safety of the communities and town centres especially at this time of the year,” Wallace told Observer Online.

—Ingrid Henry