The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) on Tuesday March 6 received four motorbikes from Stewart Motors, which will be utilised in the police’s efforts to reduce robberies and related crimes.

Police Commissioner, Owen Ellington, speaking at the handing over ceremony held at his Old Hope Road offices, said the bikes will be used to patrol the downtown and Half- Way-Tree areas.

He said that there have been a “sizable number” of murders committed during the course of robberies and the bikes will be able  to assist in this area, by supplementing the patrol teams at plazas, shopping centres, cash centres, markets and other built up areas.

With the increased mobility and flexibility, Commissioner Ellington noted, the patrol teams can more effectively respond to incidents and make arrests after crimes.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Dianne McIntosh, expressed gratitude to the operators of Stewart Motors for their continued support of the work of the law enforcement officers, while adding that the Ministry welcomes the partnership with the entity.

Ms. McIntosh noted that the additions to the fleet will allow members of the JCF to be more proficient in their problem-solving and proactive policing approach in the designated communities.

“The additional mobility will help to target the itinerant crimes such as robbery and house break-ins,” she added, while curtailing the rise of criminal activities especially in non-traditional crime areas.

Diana Stewart of Stewart Motors, while handing over the motorbikes, said that the company values its longstanding relationship with the JCF.

The company has made previous contributions to the Grants Pen Police Station in St. Andrew and the Edna Manley Clinic located in the community.

By Toni-Ann Russell, JIS PRO