Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

A mysterious bomb blast in the commercial district of Morant Bay, St Thomas, yesterday afternoon has left two women injured and members of the business fraternity horrified.

Reports are that the loud explosion, which left a plume of thick black smoke in the air, sent scores of persons running for cover.

"Everybody was frightened because it was so loud," said a shopper who was in the town at the time.

It is alleged that a popular businessman in the town was the intended victim. The businessman was reportedly targeted because of his refusal to pay over a large sum that was being demanded by extortionists.

"Things are still sketchy, but we are working on a number of leads," said Superintendent Marlon Nesbeth, who confirmed the blast resulted from an explosive device.

Affixed to a vehicle

The Gleaner understands the explosive device was affixed to a vehicle, believed to be owned by the businessman the extortionist had targeted. An informed police source said, prior to the incident, the businessman received a telephone call from an individual who demanded that he pay over J$500,000 and US$6,000. Shortly before 1 p.m., he received another call warning him to remove something from beneath his vehicle.

The businessman was reportedly in the process of sending someone to check on his vehicle when the explosion was heard. Since January, at least 20 persons have been murdered in the parish.

A member of the Morant Bay CIB said the parish was bracing for more trouble, as extortion is prevalent in its commercial districts. There is also tension brewing over work at the Yallahs ford.

glenroy.sinclair@gleanerjm.com