The Portland Police will be increasing their presence in the Moore Town community today (May 8), as a maroon election is set to get underway in short order.

18-year-old Lomorra Dillion otherwise called “Hope” is challenging Colonel Wallace Sterling for leadership of the Moore Town Maroons.

Colonel Sterling has been leader of the maroons for almost three decades.

Head of the Portland Police Superintendent Kenneth Chin had indicated last week, that police presence would be ramped up ahead of the election, as Colonel Sterling had stated that he feels threatened by people associated with another maroon chief.

Speaking to Irie Fm News this morning, Maroon Elder Annette Aarons said that a number of police personnel will be on the ground, to ensure that the election will be fair and peaceful.

She explained that maroons from nine communities are eligible to vote during the election, which will begin at 2pm.

However, Colonel Sterling has maintained that he is not aware of an election.