KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has assured that adequate security will be provided in major commercial areas, particularly those affected by recent violent flare-ups, to facilitate activities during the Christmas season.

This assurance was given by head of the JCF Corporate Communication Unit (CCU), Superintendent Stephanie Lindsay, while speaking at a JIS Think Tank forum at the agency’s head office in Kingston yesterday.

Her comments came against the background of recent violent incidents in sections of downtown Kingston, Spanish Town and Montego Bay.

Lindsay indicated that additional police and military personnel had been deployed to reinforce security in downtown Kingston, adding that “we will stay there until we are back to normalcy”.

She further advised that several collaborative law enforcement engagements have been initiated to arrest similar unrest in other parishes.

“We are not going to allow a few criminals to take away the right to freedom of the citizens. We will not let up and we are prepared to work overtime to put an end to this,” the senior officer emphasized.

Meanwhile, Lindsay has urged residents in the affected communities to cooperate with the police by sharing information, which could assist in apprehending the perpetrators of illicit activities.

She said where people were concerned about their identity being exposed, “call Crime Stop at 311 to make your complaint; they will not ask you your name or any personal information”.

Lindsay also encourages the public to keep abreast of security developments conveyed via the CCU.

“For frequent updates on information coming from the JCF or matters relating to security, you can download the ‘Stay Alert App’. You can use it to make reports as well as alert the police in the event of an emergency, or if you have witnessed any illegal activity, (by) using the panic button feature,” she said.

The senior officer indicated that the app also provide users with alerts and tips regarding missing person updates and road blocks, among other developments

Lindsay urges persons to exercise caution as they go about their business, especially during the festive season, to ensure that their safety is not compromised.