Approximately $230 million invested to bolster the mobile capacity of the JCF

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Dr. Horace Chang says the addition of motor vehicles valued at over $230 million further highlights the government’s commitment to transforming the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

He says the JCF will be one of the most modern police forces in the Western hemisphere.

Minister Chang made the statement while delivering the main address at the handing over ceremony for thirty (30) L-200 pickups, held at the Office of the Commissioner of Police in Kingston today (January 19).

The Security Minister emphasised that with consistent investment the government aims to “bring the police force to full level of establishment, fully equipped, trained and prepared to deal with the criminal elements in society.”

He also highlighted the capacity development of the force over the last few years with the “recruiting of over 6000 officers since 2020 while actively training more than 3000 officers in specialised areas.”

As the Ministry of National Security continues to enhance the police communication system and improve situational awareness through JamaicaEye, the ability to ensure swift operational responses to incidents is paramount.

Minister Chang expressed the view that the government is “confident that the men and women of the force will get the job done but they also need the tools.” As such, the government’s commitment to further investment in the JCF remains resolute.

Later this month the government will sign off on the construction of the Westmoreland Police Division Headquarters at a cost of $2.8 billion, as well as the Spanish Town Police Station at a cost of $2.5 billion by the end of the fiscal year 2023/24.

In an unwavering pursuit of a safer and more secure Jamaica, the government has embraced a structured and data-driven approach to investment within the police force. Commitment to law enforcement has been demonstrated with consistent investment in fit-for-purpose police vehicles since the fiscal year 2016/17.

Over the last six years more than 900 million dollars have been spent by the government to ramp up the mobile capacity of the JCF.