JG - POWER OF A DON - Putting politicians to shame

From my archive of press clippings:

Jamaica Gleaner

POWER OF A DON - Putting politicians to shame

Published: Sunday March 7, 2010

Arthur Hall, Senior Staff Reporter

THEY HEAD major criminal networks in Jamaica, even extending to North America and the United Kingdom. But no one seems to know for sure exactly how many of them are in play. Dons - rulers of the criminal underworld - are buttressed by legitimate government contracts, extortion, offbeat business enterprises, political, and even police support. They hold tremendous power in the trenches that rivals legitmate authority and puts elected leaders to shame.

Read the whole article here.

Snippet(s):

"The nation had a frightening look at the power of a major don in September 1998 when former Matthews Lane strongman Donald 'Zekes' Phipps was arrested and charged by the police for attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm and unlawful wounding."

"While he was being interrogated at the Central Police Station, Zekes' supporters rioted, leaving four persons - including two members of the security forces - dead."

"Usually, the more powerful dons emerge from communities loyal to one political party, with organised gang structures."

"Since then, the don has morphed into a creature almost independent of the politicians for financial support, turning instead to the lucrative drug trade, extortion, and other economic crimes."

"Today, that financially independent don is no longer hanging on to the coat-tails of the politician for his wealth, but the umbilical cord is uncut."

"The don is also expected to ensure that persons turn out for political meetings, keep out supporters of the opposing party, and ensure that residents are protected if they are attacked by their political rivals."

"In addition, the don gets his pick of the young girls in the community by free will or force."

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"Neither does he bow to the politician, putting an end to the days when the member of parliament could dictate what happens in a community."

arthur.hall@gleanerjm.com

JG - Jamaica held to ransom by local militia groups

From my archive of press clippings:

Jamaica Gleaner

Jamaica held to ransom by local militia groups

published: Sunday June 8, 2008

Dr Roderick Hewitt, Contributor

Hewitt

The first five months of 2008 have ushered in a new socio-political phenomenon within Jamaica and that is the coming into being of local militia groups. I am amazed that the media and other well-informed analysts continue to speak of gunmen terrorising the society. I beg to differ! What is currently enveloping our nation is a phenomenon that is different from all other eras. Criminal activities have metamorphosed over the years and have become a force that is now out of control.

Read the whole article here.

Snippet(s):

"What started out as criminal elements in garrison constituencies, headed by so-called 'dons' has now become independent militia groups.

In their embryonic phase, they attached themselves to political parties as parasites and delivered votes to the political parties in return for space to carry out their illegal economic activities.

They have now become so well established that they no longer need party political authorisation or support for their activities.

They privatised crime and security matters within their local communities and have transformed them politically into dictatorial fiefdoms or cantons with their system of governance headed by their own 'prime minister', 'minister of defence' and 'minister of finance' and 'minister of social security'."