JUTC drivers charged with fuel theft, possible link to gang activities

Two drivers employed by the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) have been charged with multiple counts of simple larceny by the Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigations Branch (C-TOC), following separate incidents involving the theft of fuel from the company.

They are 34-year-old Shavay Brown, otherwise called 'Shabb' and 38-year-old Dushaine Brown, otherwise called 'Shaine'.

Reports are that on two occasions, Shavay Brown diverted a JUTC bus to Chesterfield Drive in Kingston, where he extracted 100 litres of fuel.

On March 13, the JUTC bus he operates was intercepted after leaving the location where the fuel was extracted.

Following an interview on Monday, March 17, he was charged with two counts of simple larceny.

Dushaine Brown was arrested on Thursday, March 20, after it was revealed that on February 17th, 20th and 23rd, he diverted a JUTC bus to locations in Spanish Town, where over 500 litres of fuel was extracted.

He was charged with three counts of simple larceny.

The investigation has come under the purview of C-TOC investigators following its possible link to organised criminal elements.

"Fuel theft on this scale represents a significant loss to the economy and ultimately impacts all tax-paying citizens," said Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC.

"We are committed to dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring the protection of public resources. We are actively pursuing all leads and anticipate further arrests as the investigation progresses," he added.

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