JAMAICANS for Justice says that it is deeply disturbed by what it says is the delayed ending of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Keith Clarke who was killed by soldiers in a botched operation by security forces on May 26.

JFJ said in a statement today that greater transparency was in the public interest and that the delays may have compromised the integrity of the investigation. Vital evidence is yet to be made available, not all spent shells were recovered from the scene and the military is not fully cooperating with the investigation, claims the human rights group.

"Investigations surrounding military operations have too often had a history of delays, lack of transparency and the invocation of public interest immunity. However, where a citizen is deprived of his right to life by members of its security forces, the State has an obligation to investigate the death thoroughly and transparently regardless of which arm of the force is involved," said JFJ.

Clarke was killed during a search for Christopher 'Dudus' Coke in Kirkland Heights, Red Hills, St Andrew, during which four Jamaica Defence Force soldiers were shot and injured.

JFJ now wants Terrence Williams, the newly appointed Commissioner of the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) who has been charged with the investigation of incidents involving members of the security forces, to take charge of the investigation.

"We are also deeply distressed that the Bureau of Special Investigations continues to report prolonged delays in the conclusion of forensic and ballistic tests. JFJ has documented many instances where investigations have stalled due in part to reported prolonged delays in ballistic testing. JFJ reiterates the need for comprehensive reform of the ballistic and other auxiliary departments and calls for their independence from the police and added oversight by INDECOM."

Similar delays remain endemic in the Jamaican justice systemt, said JFJ, pointing to delayed rulings from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).  

"Investigations prolonged can be compromised. Long delays in getting rulings and having cases heard in court provide opportunities for problems. Justice delayed is justice denied. All arms of the justice system must work with more thoroughness and alacrity to ensure that the prevailing pattern of impunity for agents of the State in the killing of Jamaican citizens is reversed by: diligent, timely investigations; timely rulings from the office of the DPP; and timely, transparent and fair court proceedings."

Related stories:

Keith Clarke probe near completion

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Keith-Clarke-probe-near-completion

Public Defender asked to probe Keith Clarke's killing

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Public-Defender-asked-to-probe-Keith-Clarke-s-killing_7674863

Search for 'Dudus' results in businessman's death

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Search-for--Dudus--ends-in-businessman-s-death_7655366

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