Christopher 'Dudus' Coke: A profile

A stand-off is continuing in the Jamaican capital Kingston, between the security forces who are searching for an alleged drug lord wanted in the United States, and armed members of his gang.

Forty-four people have been killed in clashes between the two sides since soldiers and police moved in on Monday to the deprived neighbourhood where Christopher "Dudus" Coke was said to be hiding.

Mr Coke is wanted for extradition by the US on drug and gun-running charges. His supporters have said they will protect him at any cost.

The BBC's Nina Robinson has just returned from Kingston and looks at the man central to the current unrest in the country.

Gangsters battle with security forces in Jamaican capital

Jamaican security forces have been fighting with gunmen as the government attempts to take control of an alleged drug dealer's stronghold in the capital, Kingston.

Gunfire erupted as troops and police moved into the Tivoli Gardens district to search for Christopher "Dudus" Coke, who is wanted by the US to stand trial on drug trafficking charges.

Mr Coke has thousands of loyal followers who admire his work for the poor in Jamaica and have vowed to protect him at any cost.

The BBC's Matthew Price is in Kingston and has been speaking to a local resident.