| Thugs beat cabbies spanish town TAXI DRIVERS ARE being beaten and abused by thugs in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, because they have refused to use the old train line terminus, THE STAR understands. The thugs attack the drivers if they pick up or let off passengers on Young Street instead of using the terminus, especially in the peak hours. It is understood that the cabbies are being forced to use the terminus because that is where the thugs collect extortion money from them. If they do not use it, then it is almost impossible for them to collect. In full view During an undercover assignment in the area last week, THE STAR witnessed several taxi drivers being mercilessly beaten by men armed with pick-axe sticks and other implements. Some were dragged from their vehicles and hit while beer and water were thrown on others. This happened in full view of the public but despite this, the Spanish Town police, though admitting to hearing of the beatings, say they have received no official reports and can do nothing. Interestingly, during the beating incidents witnessed by THE STAR, no police officers were seen. Communters and residents in the area, tell THE STAR that the cabbies refuse to use the terminus as most commuters do not go around there for fear of being robbed and/or killed. No reports They explained that there are no police officers, proper lighting and security arrangements in the terminus and they are left to the mercy of gunmen and bandits, especially in the peak hours leading up to night fall. The passengers that are mostly affected are those going to Linstead, Bog Walk, Eltham, Angels and the Ensom City areas outside Spanish Town. An officer at the police station pointed out that if it was the police who were forcing these persons to go into the terminus there would have already been several demonstrations, but out of fear the taxi men and affected commuters have not reported the matter. Nevertheless the police have promised to have a more visible presence in the affected area. |