Two men have been arrested in connection with the shooting of a 38-year-old man in Southampton as police pledge to step up holiday patrols to clamp down on violence.The man was shot on East Avenue during the early hours of the evening on Wednesday, December 21. “Two men have been taken into custody regarding this matter a 26-year-old male from Pembroke, and a 22-year-old male from Paget. These men remain in police custody,” said a Police spokesman.He added: “We are still interested in speaking to anyone that may have seen two men on foot in the East Avenue / Sunnyside Park / West Avenue / Horseshoe Road areas of Southampton between 6.45pm and 7.10pm. These men were dressed in hooded sweat tops and one may have had an exposed shirt underneath. Both suspects were black males - suspect one was approximately 5’6” to 5’8”l, with the second suspect being taller in the range of 5’8” to 6’2”. Both were skinny males.“Forensic processing of the crime scene has been completed, and items of evidence will be subject to further forensic testing.“Area residents have been spoken to and some valuable information has been received. However, there are still people in the community that may have information that can assist. Any information passed to the Serious Crime Unit will be dealt with discreetly and in confidence.”Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva stated: “In light of the recent shootings and other gun crimes, there is a risk that community fears may rise over the potential for violence this holiday. However, the Bermuda Police Service has an increased number of officers on patrol. Those officers are well trained and equipped and I am satisfied that they will continue to meet these challenges and work with the community to make Bermuda safer.”The increased patrols over the holiday period will have particular emphasis in higher risk neighbourhoods. Police powers to stop and search persons under all available provisions of law will be utilised, with minimal disruption to the law abiding public.