THE?TYRES of more than 40 vehicles in several districts in The City were punctured and flattened late Saturday night and early yesterday morning by what residents suspect to be a group of thugs.
Police Inspector David Welch has expressed outrage at “the lawless acts” and told the DAILY?NATION, the matter would be looked at very seriously.
“I certainly can’t remember anything like this. This is a real cause for concern. We will be pursuing this matter vigorously. Anyone who may have information should contact the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) or call 211,” Welch said.
More than 15 car tyres were punctured in 4th Avenue, New Orleans, ten in Chapman Street, and there were other instances in 3rd and 7th Avenue, New Orleans, Reed Street and along Kensington New Road. Every victim said they suspected ice picks were used to pierce the tyres.
The car owned by taxi-driver Sydney Mathurin, of 4th Avenue, New Orleans, spent the entire day on blocks after all four tyres were flattened.
On the same street, former national darts player, Winston Edwards, had a front tyre punctured; 56-year-old National Cultural Foundation (NCF) employee, Tony Best, had two tyres flattened and Romell “Tom” John woke up to find his vehicle with two flats.
“Some men just tormented the place. They actually stabbed the walls of the tyres, meaning you had to get inner tubes.
It has cost me $50. It’s a serious act that must be condemned,”?said the 25-year-old John.
Elton Gibbs, driver of a minibus that plies the northern route, was setback by two flats, both on the right side.
Derry Grant, of Pegwell Park, Christ Church, who was parked in the New Orleans on Saturday night, had to fork out near $70 after he too, fell victim of the mischievous group.
Bodywork man, Michael Watson, was kept busy throughout the morning and afternoon, putting on tyres on three cars.
“This is an outrage. It really is not fair to these people. I have no idea as to who is responsible but it is certainly a criminal act. It is disgusting that so many communities have been affected in this way,” Watson said.
Rashid Degia, who was born in India, but has been living in Barbados for more than 20 years, said this was the first time he has been the victim of such a lawless act.
Degia, who lives in Chapman Street, woke up yesterday morning, to see tyres on both of his vehicles flattened. His van had three flat tyres and his car, one puncture.
Marleysa Harewood, 28, was planning to leave her home in Kensington New Road yesterday morning for 9 a.m. church service, but had to abort the idea after two of her car tyres were pierced.
In Reed Street, Thomas “Eddie”?Alexander, 34, was stalled all morning by two flats.
It is believied that the misdemeanors were committed between 11:30 p.m. and 2 a.m.
