Senior Superintendent of Police, Calvin Benjamin (centre), second in charge of the Major Investigation Taskforce (MIT); Deputy Superintendent Tripper Grant (right), and Superintendent Selvin Hay take questions from journalists at a press conference called yesteday by the unit to update the public about the progress of investigations into murders, shootings and other crimes. The press conference was held at the MIT's downtown Kingston office. - Norman Grindley /Deputy Chief Photographer

Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer

The mystery surrounding the death of popular personality, Christine Hewitt, may soon be over as the Major Investigation Taskforce (MIT) said yesterday that it was about to make a breakthrough in the case.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Calvin Benjamin, taskforce commander at MIT, said yesterday at a press conference conducted by the unit that members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force are currently in The United States conducting investigations regarding Ms. Hewitt's death.

Though tight-lipped, SSP Benjamin said the nature of the case has led them to carry out forensic investigations in The US.

"We are also investigating several persons of interest," added SSP Benjamin.

Last June, Ms. Hewitt's charred body was found in a burnt-out SUV on the Mount Industry main road, in St. Catherine. The police identified Ms. Hewitt by herwedding band.

Deputy Superintendent Tripper Grant said that the police are 70 per cent sure that the remains that were found at the crime scene was that of Ms. Hewitt.

"This is a very unique case that involves a lot of scientific investigations," said DSP Grant.

The MIT also gave an update on the violent flare-up in some communities off Red Hills Road, St. Andrew, and on the killing of three police officers.

Long-standing feud

Three persons have been arrested in connection with the long-standing feud. On Tuesday, some other persons were also held in connection with the violent eruptions in the community.

At least 23 persons have been murdered since the violence flared up in the Red Hills Road area, last November.

"This started due to extortion and a refusal in the sharing of money," said SSP Benjamin.

Regarding the slaying of Corporal Charles Gordon, in January, one suspect has been identified and the police are still seeking a man known as 'Cheese Trix'.

Three suspects are in custody and are to face an identification parade for the gruesome murder of Corporal Scarlett Biggs, who was killed at his home off Waltham Park Road, about three weeks ago.

Two suspects are still in custody for the murder of Constable Dave Daley less than two weeks ago in Brook Valley, Duhaney Park.

- shelly-ann.thompson@ gleanerjm.com.