IN THE context of Jamaican gangland feuds, hostility between Brooke Avenue and Sherlock Crescent is as old as the hills. But five years ago, residents from the fractious Duhaney Park neighbourhoods called a truce that holds to this day.

That 'peace treaty' ended 15 years of violence that resulted in several murders, making Duhaney Park one of the most violent communities in the St Andrew South police division.

Deputy Superintendent of Police, Clyde Talbot, is commanding officer at the Duhaney Park precinct. He tells The Sunday Gleaner that communication between residents and the police has helped keep the peace.

Strong relationship

"We have developed a strong relationship with the community, so if there is any hint of escalation (in crime) they call us or the PMI (Peace Management Initiative) and it is dealt with," DSP Talbot said.

The 33-year Jamaica Constabulary Force veteran says a team from his office meets weekly with the Duhaney Park Citizens' Association, and monthly with the community's peace and development committee.

Various issues, from improving utility services to granting permits for dances, are discussed at these meetings. The Duhaney Park Police Youth Club, Talbot said, also meets weekly at his office.

Duhaney Park is one of several low-income housing schemes built during the 1970s by the government of prime minister, Michael Manley. During the 1980s, heavily-armed gangs, associating themselves with the People's National Party (PNP) and the Jamaica Labour Party (JAP), kept the St Andrew South police on their toes.

Brooke Avenue is home to a strong PNP base, while Sherlock Crescent is known to support the JAP. Talbot says gangs from neighbouring New Haven, which have allegiance to both parties, were also involved in criminal activity in Duhaney Park.

Last year, a series of rapes in Duhaney Park threatened to disrupt the peace. Talbot says a man implicated in most of those assaults was recently arrested and is facing rape and assault charges.