Kidnappings doubled in 2008, but the high incidence of staged hostage taking in recent years has caused concern among police sleuths.

Data revealed by Errington Malcolm, acting deputy superin-tendent at the Organised Crime Investigation Division (OCID), show that there were 15 reported cases last year, compared with eight in 2007. These statistics are significantly lower, though, than the 38 kidnappings and abductions in 2006.

However, detectives said that 21 per cent - 13 reports - of cases over the last three years implicated hostages in ransom requests. Virtually all hostages suspected of hatching plots with conspirators refused to assist in police investigations, The Gleaner has learnt.

Public mischief

Though unable to provide The Gleaner with specifics on the investigations being pursued, OCID said many of these cases are already before the courts.

Individuals have been charged with causing public mischief in relation to bids, in conjunction with cronies, to extract financial gain from unsuspecting family and friends. Most hostages and hostage-takers fall in the 16-40 age cohort, the police said.

Acting Senior Superintendent Fitz Bailey, who heads OCID, credits the division's anti-kidnapping and anti-abduction strategies, as well as specialised training from Scotland Yard and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, with limiting the incidence of deadly violence in breaking cases.

However, OCID detectives are urging individuals who are approached with ransom requests to desist from unilaterally giving money to perpetrators. The police said such payouts complicate and hamper investigations, noting that it was often difficult to convince relatives that some hostages were complicit in kidnappings.

Paying ransoms

"If money needs to be paid out, a trained negotiator must properly supervise the situation at any stage it becomes necessary," said Detective Sergeant Colin Campbell.

"In case it is a situation where money has to be paid out, the life of the hostage must be taken into account first, and we can't be certain that the hostage is still alive, or that the persons making the demand have the person to be released, or that the hostage will be released safely, so we will encourage persons not to pay out any money."

Vigilance virtues

Never leave children alone or unsupervised.

Be careful with whom you leave children.

As soon as possible, teach children steps to avoid being abducted or kidnapped.

Bring it to the attention of an adult if children are in an uncomfortable situation.

Where possible don't take taxis alone.

Walk in groups.

Never loiter on the street.

Avoid walking near abandoned buildings, lots and shortcuts.

Abductions vs kidnappings

Carl Berry, detective sergeant, at the Organised Crime Investigation Division, emphasises that there is a difference between abduction and kidnapping.

"Abduction is in relation to a female, where she has been taken against her will (for sexual reasons), while kidnapping is taking male or female against their will, usually for a ransom," said Berry.