The security forces have increased their presence in the Bernard Lodge area of St. Catherine where criminal elements have allegedly organized the capturing of sections of the property.

This, according to the Office of the Prime Minister which said the revelation came at the monthly sitting of the National Security Council Chaired by Prime Minister Andrew Holness last Thursday (September 29).

The government is undertaking a major development plan for the Bernard Lodge area that will result in more affordable housing.

In a release the OPM said the security council expressed grave concerns regarding the emergence of this dimension of criminal threat to the rule of law and public order in Bernard Lodge.

It said the council has directed that strong action be taken to halt the illegal capture and squatting in the area.

As a result, the security forces have ramped up their presence in the area to deal with the threats.