Kingston – Jamaica police have gone on high alert following what law enforcement authorities have termed “coordinated” attacks against police officers and their families.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) in a statement said that it had raised the threat level for violence against members to high and that there have been three such incidents in the past 24 hours. The JCF said that three men have been taken into custody in connection with the incidents.
The JCF says it is unable to disclose details due to the sensitive nature of the high level investigation and National Security Minister, Dr Horace Chang, has condemned the recent attacks on police officers resulting in the death of 67-year-old Clifton Green, the father of a detective inspector of police.
“These targeted attacks on our police officers to disrupt law and order and incite public fear and panic are of grave concern and will not be tolerated. No stones will be left unturned in these matters and the security forces will not rest until the perpetrators have been brought to justice,” said Chang.
He said he wanted to reassure the public and that under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, Major General Antony Anderson, the JCF will not be deterred and will be redoubling its efforts to dismantle gangs and restore peace and safety in communities.
Chang said that these incidents will not be allowed to impair the fight against crime. He said the Bill to amend the Anti-Gang Legislation had been returned to the ministry recently.
“This administration will continue to work hard to strengthen the provisions of the Anti-Gang Legislation to bolster prosecutions against gangsters while deterring crime,” Chang said, expressing condolences to the family of two sisters who were murdered in Mona Commons recently, as well as a pregnant woman in Williamsfield, Manchester on Friday.
He urged citizens with information that can assist the police in their investigations to call Crime Stop or visit their nearest police station.
Chairman of the Police Federation, Sergeant Patrae Rowe, is urging JCF members to be extremely vigilant in carrying out their duties. (CMC)
