Area One Police Lauded

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Clifford Chambers, says members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Area One have been performing exceptionally well, despite challenges encountered in executing their duties.

Area One, for which ACP Chambers is the Commanding Officer, comprises the parishes of Trelawny, St. James, Hanover, and Westmoreland.

The senior officer, who was speaking at a recent St James Police recognition and awards dinner at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, said Area One has recorded the highest number of firearms and ammunition seized, and the most recoveries arising from financial crimes.

He noted that while it is easy to blame the police, even for matters beyond their control, the extent of challenges and risks experienced daily by the men and women under his command is “mind-boggling”.

“The conditions and environment, including the erosion of humanity, that our police officers have to deal with here in Montego Bay and, [by extension], St James can be very difficult,” ACP Chambers emphasised.

He pointed out that “the barometer of success, as we have come to adopt in this country, is measured by how effective our law enforcement personnel are able to control crime and violence.”

“However, the conditions are not always ideal when dealing with crime and criminals. [We see the scant regard] for love… respect and care. We see [the penchant] for drug dealings, scamming, and a proliferation of guns,” he added.

ACP Chambers said when those conditions are “overlayed” with an environment that embraces “greed, dishonesty and corruption”, it makes the work of the police even more difficult, rendering them susceptible to all types of danger.

He noted that while the men and women of the JCF are cognisant of the dangers of their jobs and largely undertake their duties without complaining, it is equally important that they be recognised for their service to the public and country at large.

“It is very difficult to be a police officer in Jamaica, and here in Montego Bay. This is why we have functions like these so [that] we can honour our men and women of the JCF who oftentimes go beyond the call of duty to keep us all safe. They have been shot and shot at, while some are no longer with us. We want to show them… how much they are appreciated.” ACP Chambers stated.

Police Commissioner, Major General Antony Anderson, who endorsed the Area One Commander’s sentiments, lauded police officers in the St. James Division, in particular, for the work they have been doing in efforts to deal with public order in the tourism capital, Montego Bay, under the ‘Operation Restore Paradise’ initiative .

Fifty members of the Division were recognised for outstanding contributions to the JCF.