Local Government Minister Desmond Mckenzie has issued a strong warning to persons who abuse members of the homeless population.

He said action will be taken against those individuals.

The comment from the minister, follows the charging of five teenagers for the murder of homeless man Lionel Johnson , who was set on fire in Kingston on August 29.

Mr. Johnson later died at hospital.

Irie Fm news understands that the teenagers – two 15 year olds, a sixteen year old and two 17 year olds – were charged after interviews between Tuesday and Wednesday

In commending the police for the progress made in the case, Mr Mckenzie said those who abuse the homeless will not get away with it.

The local government minister stated that the society, must undertake a deep review of basic values.

Mr Mckenzie is calling on parents to to take an interest in the activities of their children.

He said transitional centers are being built across the country for homeless persons to sleep unbothered.