The Jamaica National reserves have been called out and additional troops deployed in St. James, to support the state of public emergency.

This was revealed by chief of defence staff Major General Rocky Meade.

The army head said, persons using all roads leading in and out of St. James may be subject to vehicle and personal search, and residents will see joint patrols both static and mobile, across the parish.

And, Police Commissioner George Quallo turned the spotlight on gang activities in St. James.

Speaking at today’s (Jan 18) press conference at which a state of emergency was declared for St. James Mr. Quallo said the parish has presented a major challenge to police operations.

He indicated that St. James recorded 335 murders last year, almost twice as many as any other parish. Clarendon recorded 168 murders for 2017.

Mr. Quallo said there are numerous gangs operating in St. James, involved in murders, shootings, scamming, extortion and other illicit activities.

The police chief stated that the security forces will be going after wanted men, seizing weapons and taking back communities.

There is a reward for guns and wanted men and residents may call the special hotline 837-8888, or crime stop at 311.