Gareth Davis Sr, Star Writer

For the second time in a week, residents in Hope Bay, Portland, blocked the roadway leading into the Cooling Spring community and beyond, which left dozens of students, teachers, and motorists, stranded for more than seven hours.

The protest action, which reportedly started shortly after 1 a.m. on Monday, saw residents chopping down trees and using other debris to mount blockades, bringing vehicular traffic to a halt. They were complaining bitterly about a dust nuisance.

"This is not about politics," said Richard Dennis, a spokesperson for the protesting residents. "Last year the entire roadway leading from Hope Bay into Cooling Spring, Fruitful Vale, and Shrews Berry, was dug up and the surface relaid with marl. There are many trucks plying this route depositing marl at the China Harbour site in St Margaret's Bay, where a bridge is being built. But the dust is affecting just about everyone, and despite our pleas, no one has come forward to address our plights."

dust inhalation

According to Dennis, at least three children were taken to hospital last week as a result of dust inhalation, which has also forced several businesses to close their doors, as goods are covered in dust. Similarly, he said that homeowners have suffered a similar fate - having to close their doors and windows.

Against that background, Dennis said that they are demanding a response from the National Works Agency (NWA), and their Member of Parliament, Daryl Vaz, who are yet to address their plights.

Yesterday, the police turned out in large numbers shortly after 9 a.m accompanied by a heavy-duty truck and a bulldozer from the NWA to clear the blocked area.

St Elizabeth police release 'most wanted' names

The police in St Elizabeth have released the names of eight of the most wanted in the parish.

They are 45-year-old Jackson Gayle, alias Randy Gayle; Andrew Daniels; Christopher Simpson or 'Genus' and Martin Wallace all of whom are wanted for murder.

Also on the list are Dukor Lewis, who is wanted for shooting with intent; Samora Waite, who is wanted for double murder and shooting with intent, Alex Ramsamough, alias 'Roxy', who is wanted for murder and wounding with intent; and Gregory Wright, who is wanted for rape.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of these men is being asked to contact the St Elizabeth police by calling 965-2026, or 119, or the nearest police station.