THE police this week reaffirmed its intentions to clamp down on crime in Portmore, conducting a major raid at the Caymanas Park race track on Wednesday and celebrating the conviction of a major gang figure a day later.

More than a hundred police personnel cordoned the race track during the midweek race programme, searching patrons and various sections of the property.

Deputy Superintendent Clive Blair led the operation, which resulted in the detention of 45 punters, some of whom the police have described as "persons of interest".

Some detained were held for ganja-related offences, including possession and dealing in the drug.

numerous complaints

The raid, police sources said, was a result of numerous complaints from Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) concerning the use of ganja by patrons.

"More than 120 persons were searched, 45 taken into custody for questioning in relation to various crimes committed in St Catherine South. A number were taken into custody for possession of ganja, dealing in ganja and being in possession of offensive weapons," Blair explained.

Blair said Caymanas Park was "an area of concern" as the police had information that criminal elements attended the races.

Meanwhile, the neighbouring community of Waterford, which runs parallel to the back stretch of the race track, saw one of its most feared gang members, Keith Reid, also called 'What A Sight', sentenced to 15 years in prison on Thursday.

15-year sentences

Reid was slapped with 15 years for illegal possession of firearm and 15 years for illegal possession of ammunition by judge Christine McDonald.

Evidence led by the Crown was that 'What A Sight' was held during an operation conducted on May 22.

The operation was led by Superintendent Marlon Nesbeth.

Reid, the police said, was taken by surprise, caught asleep with a baby near him.

The police said quick, noiseless entry was effected and Reid reacted by using the child as a shield.

Nesbeth described the operation as a tremendous success.

"The Waterford area comes up for a lot of scrutiny and police attention," said Superintendent Nesbeth.

The conviction of 'What A Sight' is part of a war being waged against organised gangs in Portmore since January by Nesbeth and his team.

"We will continue our efforts in bringing to justice key gang figures in Portmore," said Nesbeth, serving warning on numerous outfits such as, 'Unruly' gang, 'Umbrella', 'Boston' and the 'Lynch Mob'.