KINGSTON, Jamaica — A new National Security Council (NSC) policy will see members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), who could be deployed under the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations, Special Security and Community Development Measures) Act, 2017, begin additional training in rights of citizens, observance of human rights and use of force. 

The legislation, which is only at the Bill stage, proposes to give security forces special powers to regain control of areas designated to be ‘high-crime’ areas.

According to a release from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the policy direction, which was agreed during the monthly NSC meeting yesterday, is aimed at improving citizen security and public safety whilst maintaining and protecting human rights. 

The OPM said that the measure would to ensure that the members of the security forces will operate with a full understanding of the law and with respect for the rights and dignity of citizens while exercising the powers proposed to be given to them under the new legislation tabled in Parliament on Tuesday.

The NSC noted the ongoing concerns of the public that some members of the security forces continue to undermine the integrity and trust of law enforcement.  Coming out of the discussions, the Commissioner of Police will institute a broader programme of polygraph testing applicable to all members of the JCF, beginning with Area 1 (Trelawny, St. James, Westmoreland and Hanover). 

The Council also reviewed the implementation of the zero-tolerance policy with respect to window tinting of public passenger vehicles and noted that while there had been general compliance, a significant number of these vehicles were still in breach. 

The OPM said that the public should note that on the expiration of licences for operators of these vehicles, renewal will only be granted if the vehicles are in compliance with the relevant legal requirements, including those in relation to the window-tinting guidelines.

The NSC is an organ of Cabinet, comprising of the prime minister, the ministers of national security, finance, justice, foreign affairs and the attorney general as well as the national security advisor, the commissioner of police and the chief of defence staff, supported by other officials.