The conflict is a classic example of a hollow state (Jamaica) in conflict with local sources of order (Dudas). For many in Kingston’s slums, Dudas is a much better provider of political goods (education, security, and food) than the state, which translates into the popular support he gets locally.
Plus, Dudas, with his drug dealing and political power within his garrsion is inevitably allied with parts of the supposed legitimate political class, many of whom profit mightily from drugs via money laundering, dirty banks and hedge funds, and outright payoffs and bribes.
Our own state is hollowing out too, as witness its utterly inadequate response to Hurricane Katrina and now the Gulf oil leak.