Gang rivalry spiked in the Carenage community amidst the Local Government Elections where three people were shot and injured.
The shooting incident which occurred mid morning on Monday did hinder villagers from going to vote as many of them expressed fear and grave concerns.
According to a police report, at about 9.30 am there was a clash between two rival gangs at Scorpion Alley. Police said one man was brutally attacked. While another was seen hastily retreating.
It is believed that the man, who was seen leaving returned a few minutes later in a vehicle accompanied by other people who drove past where the fight broke out and opened fire.
Three people, who weren't identified were reportedly shot and wounded. They were all taken to the St James Infirmary for medical treatment.
About 20 minutes after police and fire officers were called to an adjacent village, Mt Pleasant, where a car was set on fire.
Speaking with the Guardian Media a resident, who wished not to be identified said the gang situation in the area is worsening and many of them are afraid to leave their homes, even to go out to vote, "We can't leave from here...next thing we end up dead. The police supposed to be in here right through to keep us safe but I don't know what happening?"
"Them fellas on nonsense and nobody doing anything about it, " the 67-year-old villager said.
Another resident, when approached said she will not say anything as her life could be in danger.
A senior officer of the Western Division assured that for the rest of the day there was a heightened police presence including patrols, which he added also provided security for people who did not vote yet, for them to proceed to cast their ballots.
No one has been arrested in connection with the shooting and fire.
In recent months residents would hear sporadic gunshots almost on a daily basis.
Since April this year, police and soldiers have carried out numerous exercises arresting many for various offences including arms and ammunition possession, drugs and shooting incidents.
Investigations are continuing.