Thirteen female vendors who were given a chance by the police after they were allegedly caught selling goods illegally on Orange Street, in downtown Kingston found themselves behind bars minutes later after breaching the Town and Communities Act.

The women were initially held by members of the Island Special Constabulary Force but were later released.

After being released, the women reportedly went in front of the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation and staged a protest.

The women, one of whom is said to be pregnant, demanded to speak with Kingston Mayor Desmond McKenzie. They were, however, arrested and taken to the Darling Street Police Station where they were charged with violating the Town and Communities Act.