Three arrested and charged for kidnapping, robbery of two foreign nationals in Portland
PORTLAND, Jamaica – Three men from Portland have been arrested and charged in connection with the kidnapping and robbery of two foreign nationals on Sunday, between Fairy Hill and Folly Ruins in Port Antonio.
The three men are 24-year-old Sandre ‘Manta’ Phipps, a waiter; 28-year-old taxi operator Davian Henry; and 22-year-old Rolando Thomas, who is reportedly unemployed.
They have been charged with kidnapping, robbery with aggravation, breach of the Law Reform Act, and possession of scamming paraphernalia. The incident reportedly occurred between 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm.
According to the police, the foreign nationals visited Winifred Beach located at Fairy Hill in the parish. However, when heavy rain began, both complainants decided to leave. Upon leaving the beach, the foreigners reportedly boarded a white motor car resembling a Toyota Corolla, intending to travel to Port Antonio Town.
However, upon reaching Folly Main Road, the driver of the motor vehicle diverted to Folly Ruins, where they were approached by three males wearing masks and armed with knives.
The complainants were then allegedly robbed of their belongings, including one black wallet containing J$30,000, US$150, one debit card, and one credit card. Other stolen items included one GoPro camera valued at US$299, one black Samsung Galaxy S22 valued at US$1,000, and one blue iPhone 14 cellular phone valued at USD$1,500.
Observer Online understands that there is a possibility the foreigners were also scammed, which the police say they are trying to ascertain as the investigation continues.
The men are scheduled for an upcoming court date in the Portland Parish Court.*
-Everard Owen