The St Mary police have ramped up their presence in several parts of the parish, to tackle an increase in murders, since the start of the year.

39 murders have been recorded to date, compared to the 22 recorded for the corresponding period last year.

This represents a 77 percent increase in murders.

Acting head of the St Mary Police, Deputy Superintendent Kevin Francis said focus will be placed on the Annotto Bay, Gayle and Oracabessa areas.

DSP Francis urged residents to collaborate with the police, in tackling crime and violence in the parish.