Western Bureau:

Members of the Montego Bay business and political communities have expressed shock and disgust at the brazen early-morning shooting of former Mayor of Montego Bay and businessman Shalman Scott.

Scott, a noted political analyst and trade unionist, was shot by unknown assailants in the upscale neighbourhood of Carol Gardens, St James.

He became mayor of Montego Bay in 1981 and served for five years.

Newly installed president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and noted political analyst, Lloyd B. Smith, condemned the shooting and urged residents of Montego Bay to not surrender to the criminal onslaught now plaguing the city.

Can't surrender

"No one is safe, but it does not make sense to hide in fear. Maybe this is what the criminals want, for us to surrender. But we can't surrender, we have to stand up and fight to the last drop," Smith told The Gleaner.

In addition, Smith urged the police to do more work in gathering intelligence and rely less on mere speculation.

He argued that the police need to be more proactive in their intelligence gathering.

"When these things happen, all types of speculation comes to the forefront and that's not good in itself," he said.

Mayor of Montego Bay Charles Sinclair described the incident as "most unfortunate" as Scott was "someone who has contributed to Montego Bay and the parish of St James as a political representative and educational lecturer".

According to early reports, Scott was out jogging when he was attacked. It was reported that he was attacked by men travelling in a white Toyota Corolla motor car. The men opened fire at him. He managed to escape the first volley of shots, but was shot in the thighs and buttocks as he fled.

Commanding officer in charge of St James, Superintendent Steve McGregor, said the investigation into the latest shooting incident was moving swiftly.

Death threats

Yesterday's incident was not the first attempt on Scott's life as police confirmed his home was fireb****ed six months ago. He has also received numerous death threats.

Up to press time, Scott was said to be in stable condition at the Cornwall Regional Hospital where he was under-going treatment.