Police to Receive Protective Gear

Cabinet has awarded a contract valued at US$771,000 to American firm, Armor Express, for the provision of protective equipment for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

The items include 1, 500 ballistic vests, 1, 000 ballistic helmets and 500 helmet shields.

Speaking at Jamaica House press briefing on Wednesday, September 9 at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston, Minister with responsibility for Information, Senator the Hon. Sandrea Falconer, said the acquisition of these pieces of equipment is critical for the safety and protection of police personnel.

She informed that the funds have been budgeted for in the recurrent budget for 2015/16.

“The provision and distribution of these critical security equipment to police personnel will provide personal protection and reduce serious injuries while on duty,” she noted.

Ms. Falconer said JCF statistics show that between 2012 and 2014, a total of 38 police personnel were injured on duty.

She said it is important that the police are equipped and protected to face challenges on the job.

The last purchase of ballistic vests for the JCF was made in 2013.

Headquartered in Central Lake, Michigan, Armor Express designs, develops, manufactures and distributes a full line of high performance hard and soft body armour, helmets and other accessories for law enforcement, military, correctional and other tactical personnel.