KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — National Security Minister Robert Montague has announced plans for the reintroduction of the Lottery Scam Taskforce by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

He said Police Commissioner Dr Carl Williams has advised of plans to intensify operations against lottery scammers, while underscoring the need to “move quickly” in this regard.

“The price is too high, with broken families, broken communities, and a country whose brand is being damaged,” he said while speaking during a recent ceremony at the National Police College in St Catherine.

Montague indicated that the Government will be moving to amend more laws, with a focus on intensifying training for police officers to effectively countering the lottery scam.

Williams, who also attended the ceremony, said the taskforce will become operational in western Jamaica shortly.

He also underscored the need for collaboration between Jamaican and United States law enforcement agencies to effectively the illicit the activity adversely affects both countries.

In this regard, Williams said the establishment of a Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) office in Jamaica was timely, adding that he has already met with the agent assigned to oversee its operation.

The commissioner further said he was optimistic that “this partnership will open opportunities for more training and sharing of best practices, which will redound to the safety and security of Jamaicans.”

Montague and Williams participated in the handing over of 3,500 less lethal weapon kits which were donated by the United States Government for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).