1 week ago
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Cabinet has signed off on a major upgrade to law-enforcement technology, approving the purchase of more than 1,000 body-worn cameras for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, confirming that this forms part of a wider strategy to boost accountability, transparency, and public trust across police-citizen interactions.
The Prime Minister stressed that the initiative is more complex than simply outfitting officers with cameras. He explained that the devices operate within a sophisticated digital ecosystem, requiring secure storage, archival systems that meet legal evidentiary standards, and robust fibre-optic networks to transmit footage. “There’s a lot to be built out before you can deploy body-worn cameras,” Holness said, noting that the buildout has already begun and more procurement phases are expected.
Holness also used the moment to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to human rights training within both the JCF and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). He acknowledged concerns about police-related killings but argued that the conversation must also address the increasing willingness of criminals to confront law enforcement. “The Jamaican State must never be at threat or at risk of criminals. If criminals challenge the State, they must not win,” he said, adding that officers must be able to return home safely to their families.
With INDECOM’s oversight still firmly supported and internal use-of-force policies under constant review, the Prime Minister underscored that the ultimate goal remains consistent: a police force that protects, serves, and preserves life. As the rollout of body-worn cameras moves forward, Jamaicans can expect heightened visibility and stronger safeguards across policing operations.
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