ST MARY, Jamaica— The St Mary police ticketed 86 motorists for various traffic violations during a joint public order and public safety operation in Port Maria on Friday.

The operation which was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Kevin Francis, and involved health and environmental agencies, also resulted in six people being arrested for various offences.

“We have engaged our stakeholders to make St Mary safe … in this operation where several persons, after visiting food establishments, have been prosecuted for not having any food handlers [permits],” DSP Francis said.

The state agencies he referenced were the National Environment and Planning Agency, National Solid Waste Management Authority, the St Mary Public Health Department and the St Mary Municipal Corporation.

DSP Francis said the operation was not to oppress the people of Port Maria but for their own safety.

“When you block the pedestrians from the sidewalks with your stall, you are going to force the pedestrians to walk in the road which would become a safety concern,” he said.

On the matter of safety, DSP Francis implored residents who may be stealing electricity to cease and desist from doing so considering the potential harm that can occur.

“I ask that you become compliant with the Jamaica Public Service and be mindful of what can happen; that children can become electrocuted,” he warned.

He further implored residents not to harbour persons of interest in a crime, and instead call the nearest police station.

—Ingrid Henry