More expressions of outrage at the execution-style murders of two young children were put forward yesterday as family and friends continued to mourn.

The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) said it was outraged at the murders of six-year-old Tajax and his 15-year-old sister Tavia on Wednesday at their Portmore home.

We express deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to the Smith family and to those families who continue to be severely affected by the effects of crime and violence in our nation,? the PSOJ said, noting it was horrified at the brutality and callousness" of persons who have no qualms about attacking and murdering children.

I am sure that every Jamaican shares a deep sense of horror at the senseless killing of our citizens, and particularly so when it involves children," said PSOJ President Christopher Zacca. He added that the PSOJ was reiterating its stance that dealing with crime must be the number one priority for the nation.

Condemned act

Dr. Peter Phillips, Minister of National Security, had on Thursday condemned the fatal shooting at Portmore Lane, St. Catherine, on Wednesday night.

Dr. Phillips described the actions of the gunmen as repulsive and shocking and called on witnesses to pass on information to the authorities.

Yesterday, the Child Development Agency (CDA) said it was deeply saddened by the slayings.

We strongly denounce this brazen and outrageous act which has left the nation reeling at the barbarism and callousness of those hardened criminals, who continue to rob us of our most valued national treasure," said Alison Anderson, the CDA's chief executive officer.