Denise Reid, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Tension is running high among the Jamaican community in Grand Cayman following a series of recent violent incidents, including the murder of a Caymanian woman which has been linked to Jamaicans.

"I am afraid to go on the road," said Mark Wallace, a Jamaican who lives and works in the Cayman Islands.

His fear quickly gave way to anger. "I honestly don't know what is wrong with these Jamaican men. Some of them get a break and then come here, come keep up them foolishness, then all of us have to suffer for them."

On October 11, Caymanian Compass newspaper reported that the body of a woman was found in a burnt-out vehicle in the West Bay area of Cayman Brac.

Subsequently, it was concluded that the body was that of Cable and Wireless Communications Manager Estella Scott-Roberts. Two Jamaicans were arrested and charged with the murder. The men are to appear in court on November 19.

The death has generated widespread shock and fear in the islands. More than 4,000 people reportedly marched in her honour in the capital George Town on October 18.

Despite pleas by a Cabinet minister and a pastor, who warned against reprisals to the Jamaican community as reported in the Caymanian Compass, reports reaching The Gleaner are that the boiling anger of some Caymanians might spark retributive action.

Jamaican woman shot

When The Gleaner contacted the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, a female officer of Jamaican origin, who did not wish to be named, confirmed that two Jamaican men had been beaten up last week.

The policewoman, who has been living in Cayman for 15 months, said, "All Jamaicans are now bearing the pain and brunt of what two Jamaicans did. We're all getting the blame."

She denied that Jamaican immigrants were in a state of fear.

"I wouldn't really say they are nervous, it's just a strain on them. Stuff they would go out and do alone, they are now doing in groups."

Name changed upon request.