The demolition exercise targeting illegal structures in a section of Bernard Lodge, next to the Clifton Community, in St Catherine is now underway.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced the demolition exercise in parliament on Wednesday, noting that land in the area was being illegally sold by criminals to unsuspecting residents.

He said that unfinished buildings would be taken down first, while the government discusses options with occupants of the completed buildings.

Speaking at the demolition site this morning, the police’s Senior Communication Strategist Dennis Brooks said the police were on the scene to provide safety for the work men.

He reiterated Thursday’s project will target incomplete and unoccupied structures.

The operation which began around 6:30 on Thursday morning saw the utilization of both manual and machine labour.