JCF to provide adequate security for Christmas
THE JAMAICA Constabulary Force (JCF) has assured that adequate security will be provided in major commercial areas during the festive season to ensure public safety.
Communications officer, JCF’s Corporate Communications Unit, Sergeant Shaunjay Mitchell, says additional personnel have been deployed to reinforce security in the areas.
“We are reducing our administrative deployment and putting more persons into operational deployment, so what you will find now is that there will be an increase in the number of officers on our streets to ensure that everybody has a safe Christmas,” he said.
JEWELLERY
In addition, Sergeant Mitchell is encouraging Jamaicans to reduce the number of jewellery they wear and amount of cash they travel with by using credit or debit cards where possible.
“In order to minimise your risk of being robbed or of you losing that cash by way of somebody picking your pocket or removing it from your wallet or purse, we advise that you walk with less cash. Avoid big handbags or bulky wallets or purses,” he said.
He noted that persons should monitor their bank cards while conducting transactions, so that they do not clone or duplicate the cards. “You must always be able to see what that merchant is doing to your credit (or debit) card,” he said.
Sergeant Mitchell further advised that persons should use automated teller machines (ATMs) that are heavily trafficked.
“Avoid using ATMs in dark lonely places ... use ATMs within areas where a lot of persons tend to use, and use ATMs in public spaces where you have a lot of traffic. Once you get inside the ATM, ensure that you bolt the door behind you,” he said.
He further encouraged persons to examine the machines to ensure that duplicate keypads are not placed on the legitimate ones.
Meanwhile, Sergeant Mitchell is urging drivers to exercise patience on the road, while obeying the road codes and regulations.
He urged persons to be alert of their surroundings, adding that if they believe they are being followed, they should proceed to a busy location and contact the police immediately.