MIRAMAR – Jamaica’s Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lucius Thomas, told Jamaican nationals in South Florida that community policing is the way forward to effectively deal with the fight against crime and violence in Jamaica.
Speaking at a town hall meeting last Friday (June 15) at the Miramar City Hall, Commissioner Thomas said that the efforts were being made to build trust and confidence between the citizens and members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. This was vital in the sharing of information to assist in the fight against crime and violence.
Regarding corruption in the JCF, the Commissioner emphasized that since early last year, more than sixty (60) officers found guilty of corruption have been removed from the Force. He said that the establishment of the Professional Standards Branch and the assistance of citizens have allowed for the effective policing of corruption.
In response to questions about the investigation of the death of Pakistan cricket coach, Mr. Bob Woolmer, was closed. He further explained that the final decision had been taken after carefully following procedures and guidelines as well as seeking advice of forensics, locally and internationally.
Commissioner told the large audience of nationals that in order to enhance the intelligence base for collecting vital information, almost 19 police units have been equipped so far, with the necessary information which will be put in the national database to help create the best available investigative techniques.
In making strides to cripple the illegal drug trade, Commissioner Thomas said that successful efforts of Operation Kingfish has given a blow to the cocaine trade. However, during the past year, the Commissioner informed that some 25,000 tons of marijuana were removed from off the streets indicating that the illegal drug trade coupled with the gun trade and the work of highly organized gangs were still a problem.
In an effort to continue partnering with international law enforcement to combat Jamaica’s ongoing crime and violence, the Commissioner extended an invitation to the members of the Miramar Police Force to visit with the JCF in sharing information gathering and best practices measures.
In his welcome remarks, Consul General Ricardo Allicock challenged the Diaspora to work with the Jamaica Constabulary Force to effect changes in the fight against crime and violence.
Pointing to the significant number of deportees and arrests recorded in the Jamaican-populated communities overseas, the Consul General urged persons to be law-abiding and respectful in their daily encounters.
On Saturday (June 16), Commissioner Thomas also the special guest at the annual fundraising and scholarship awards banquet of the Jamaica Ex-Police Association, Florida chapter at the Hilton Airport Hotel in Davie.
He commended the members of the Florida chapter for their commitment and dedication to their annual renovation program of police stations undertaken across the island.
The Florida chapter of the Jamaica Ex-Police Association was started nearly 16 years ago and has an enrolment of nearly 130 members, all former officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Other chapters are established in New York and Connecticut.
