The security forces operating in St. James under the state of public emergency are appealing to residents to assist by providing information they may have on alleged gang members.

Inspector Dian Bartley of the joint police military communications unit, says cops are concerned about the many gangs in the division, and efforts will be made during the state of emergency, to dismantle these gangs.

She says the police have identified at least 12 gangs operating in the parish.

Meantime, some residents are calling on the security forces to be mindful of how they interact with citizens, especially the elderly.

One resident explains that while she welcomes the state of emergency, she is not appreciative of what she calls the aggressive behaviour of some officers.

And, residents of Norwood in St. James have expressed hope that the state of emergency will help to lift the status of the community, as one that is law abiding.

This morning, the residents observed the Jamaica Defense Force erecting a temporary camp site on the playfield in the community.

One resident says the state of emergency is indicative of government taking action to rid the country of criminal elements.

Another resident openly welcomed and embraced the presence of the security forces.

Meantime, more members of the security forces were deployed at several locations, which are considered to be crime hot spots, and also along the main borders leading to and from St. James.

The security forces were seen in areas such as Great River, Greenwood, Flanker, Salt Spring, Rose Heights and Granville.

Reports to Irie FM News are that yesterday, the first day of operation, close to 500 breaches of the road traffic act were detected, and traffic tickets issued accordingly.

There are also reports that more than a dozen motor vehicles were seized.

More foot patrols are taking place in addition to searches of people and vehicles.

A number of students were also searched, and some, who were deemed to be dressed inappropriately, including having handkerchiefs tied around their necks, were held until they rearranged their appearance.