A man was shot in the buttocks in a suspected gang-related incident in Paget in the early hours of yesterday.

The victim, 31, was taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital following the incident at 3.40 a.m. in Dudley Hill, Paget. His injuries were yesterday described as non-life threatening. MP Patricia Gordon-Pamplin, who represents the traditionally tranquil area for the United Bermuda Party, reacted yesterday from Kenya, where she is attending a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conference.

"This area is a very closely-knit neighbourhood and I trust that this incident is diffused forthwith," said Mrs. Gordon-Pamplin. "One of the neighbours of that area has just suffered a family bereavement, there are seniors who live in the area, and it has been historically tranquil with only the odd incident marring the otherwise serene environment. I trust that calm heads will prevail so that the area is not threatened by further gun violence."

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with any information to contact the Serious Crime Unit on 299-8115 or the independent confidential CrimeStoppers hotline on 800-8477.