But the protesters claimed that Hope, 29, who headed the notorious "One Order" gang that police accuse of extortion, murder and drug-running, was killed by plainclothes policemen. Between 2500 and 3000 people joined the violent demonstration that ensued, police said.

One man was burned to death when protesters torched the Spanish Town courthouse. The victim, a caretaker, was trapped inside the building. A policeman who was on duty at the court received burns and was taken to hospital.

Police imposed a curfew and the army was called out, but demonstrators continued overnight to mount roadblocks. Schools were closed today and the state-run bus company cancelled services through the area.

Many of the organised crime gangs blamed for a soaring murder rate in the Caribbean nation have their origins in politics. Hope's gang was aligned to the opposition Jamaica Labour Party. The gang has for years fought over turf with the rival "Clansman Gang", whose members are fiercely loyal to the ruling People's National Party.

The previous leader of the Clansman Gang, Donovan "Bulbie" Bennett, was shot dead by police last October. There were also riots in the town then, as citizens showed their support for a community "Don" they considered a benefactor.

The overnight riot in Spanish Town was the second time that demonstrators had come out in support of Hope.