It is emblematic of the primary contradictions in Jamaica that so many poor people decry the prospect of Mr Coke's seizure while a frightened middle class and elite demand it.

The idea behind the extradition process through which an accused person is sent to another country to stand trial is relatively straightforward.

But in practice, extraditions are messy and political, subject to public pressure and delays. And the US has been at the centre of various questionable extradition cases, where sovereignty was very much the issue.

This time, Jamaica finds itself at the centre of such a dilemma as the US authorities request the extradition of west Kingston strongman Christopher 'Dudus' Coke who is charged with trafficking in illegal drugs and gunrunning.

The fact that Coke, the reputed 'President' of Tivoli Gardens, the "mother of all garrisons", is described as a 'kingpin', 'posse leader', 'businessman', 'community activist' and 'events promoter' whose concerts are 'free of violence' speaks to the contradictions between a legal system originally created to represent colonial interests and the historically unmet material needs of the poor.

A police-military operation in Tivoli Gardens and Spanish Town Road on Sunday, January 13, 2008. - File photos