MONTEGO BAY, St James – Ministry of National Security Dr Peter Phillips yesterday announced the setting up of a mobile police station, the installation of Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) and joint police/military operations, as immediate steps that will be taken to tackle the wave of violence that has overwhelmed the parish.

According to a press release from the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), the security minister also announced the deployment of a special operating team to St James and Westmoreland to target known gang members.

The CCTVs would be installed by the end of February in Montego Bay, the minister said. He also noted that the Professional Standards Branch and Anti-Corruption Branch would be embarking on a special anti-corruption initiative specifically geared “at removing corrupt cops from active duty and ultimately imprisonment.”

Dr Phillips was speaking yesterday to concerned members of the Montego Bay business community in a closed-door meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister in Montego Bay.

Gilbert Scott, permanent secretary in the Ministry of National Security; Commissioner of Police Lucius Thomas; and ACP Clifford Blake, officer in charge of the Area One Division, were also present at yesterday’s meeting, which was initiated by the MBCCI .

Last year, a record 178 murders, more than 10 per cent of all murders islandwide, rocked St James, home of the north coast tourist capital of Montego Bay. Meanwhile, 12 murders have been recorded on St James police blotters since the start of the year, while another six have been reported in Westmoreland .