New JCF beat patrol unit to go islandwide
The Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Beat Officer Patrol Division (BOPD), which had its official rollout in the Kingston and St Andrew Metropolitan Region on March 25, is to become an islandwide initiative,
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary McKenzie, who heads the JCF’s Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, under which the BOPD falls, the unit’s primary mission is to bolster public safety and strengthen community policing efforts.
“Our primary goal is to enhance public confidence and reassurance through increased visibility on the streets,” said McKenzie, noting that visible and proactive police presence are key to the success of the unit’s goal. “The presence of our officers will serve as a deterrent to criminal activity and provide a sense of security to residents and visitors alike. An important aspect of its activity is to ensure that citizens who are conducting their affairs within commercial areas will do so safely.”
As it relates to traffic management, which is an area of major concern in many townships across the island, McKenzie said the BOPD will be placing special emphasis on addressing those concerns.
“Effective traffic management is crucial for ensuring the smooth flow of vehicles and pedestrians,” explained McKenzie. “Our officers will play a vital role in regulating traffic, preventing congestion, and promoting road safety.”
“We are very motivated to introduce the Beat Officer Patrol Division, which represents a significant step forward in our efforts to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” noted McKenzie.
McKenzie further noted that the BOPD will be focussing on community engagement and information gathering, which is expected to create the scope for a better relationship between the police and the public.
“We recognise the importance of building strong relationships
with the communities we serve. Our officers will be actively engaged with residents, gathering valuable information to support further police action and address community concerns,” he said.
The BOPD initial deployment consists of five mobile support personnel and 110 officers, who are complemented by supervisors and managers. Over time, the unit will be expanded as its spreads out across the island.