Speculation is rife that an increase in the presence of a criminal gang operating in and around Grange Lane in Portmore, St Catherine, led to a man being burnt alive beneath a coal pile in the area recently.

The police say the man is yet to be identified, as he was burnt beyond recognition.

Information reaching THE STAR suggests that on January 4, the man was placedbeneath a pile (mimickinga coal heap) and burnt by gangsters.

It is believed that the gruesome act was carried out nearthe train line in the area.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity claimed that, "By the time the police were alertedonly a head remained."

Our news team also understands that there have been reports of similar incidents taking place in the troubled area since December last year.

THE STAR also understands that the sounds of gunshots have become a familiar thing resonating from the lane.

Up to press time last night, the man was still unidentified.

According to police reports, the body of an unidentified man was discovered beyond recognition on Ham Farm on Grange Lane.

Reports from the Caymanas police are that about 4:20 p.m., the police were on patrol when they were alerted to a fire in the area.

When they arrived at the scene, it was found that it was a body that was ablaze.

The fire was extinguished, the crime scene processed and the body removed to the morgue.

Steps are still being made to identify him.

Head of The St Catherine South police, SSP Collin Pinnock, denied residents' claim that only a head was recovered by the lawmen when they arrived on the scene.

He also said he was unaware of the presence and or operations of a gang in the area.