We will not allow gangsters and criminals to derail the development plans for Spanish Town, St. Catherine.

That declaration came from Prime Minister Andrew Holness, as he reacted to reports of unrest in the old capital following the fatal shooting of alleged One Order gang leader Othneil Lobban otherwise called Thickman.

Mr. Holness noted that the situation presents an opportunity for citizens and the security forces to take back Spanish Town from the hold of criminals.

The Prime Minister said while the current situation has been brought under control, gangs continue to pose a threat to public order and citizen security.

Mr. Holness said the government is investing billions of dollars into Spanish Town and gangs will not be allowed to hijack the plans.

He called on law abiding citizens to help the police dismantle the gangs.