KINGSTON, Jamaica—Prime Minister Andrew Holness is urging residents in Manchester not to accommodate or provide cover for criminals, as he links gang activity associated with lottery scamming to a spike in murders in the parish.

Holness said the activity is threatening the peaceful character of communities and urged residents to remain vigilant about who they allow to occupy their properties.

“We note that in the parish there is an increase in gang activities related to lottery scamming, which is causing a spike in the murder rates here,” the prime minister said.

He was speaking on Friday, September 4, at a house handing-over ceremony under the New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) in Manchester, where he called on homeowners, householders, and landlords to conduct proper due diligence before allowing individuals to occupy their properties.

“Many of the scammers are trying to find quiet communities in which they can go and secretly carry out their devious activities. So, I am urging all homeowners to be on alert and not to give your property to people who are involved in scamming,” he said.

The prime minister’s warning comes as the Government continues to focus on disrupting organised criminal activity and reducing murders across the country.

At the same time, Holness also reminded the NSHP beneficiaries that the houses being provided are intended for their own residence and should not be rented out.

“The other clause in the contract is that this house is built for your residence, so you are not to rent this house out. You should be living here. This is for you and your family,” he said.

He further urged the beneficiaries to use the opportunity to strengthen their communities by remaining law-abiding citizens and positive influences among their neighbours.

“And finally, continue to be an upstanding citizen in the community, continue to give hope to your friends and neighbours, and be an ambassador for good,” the prime minister said.