KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says it will be initiating increased investigative, operational and community-based strategies in areas affected by extortion.

Chief among these strategies is the launch of an islandwide anti-extortion campaign aimed at public education and awareness, the JCF said in a release Saturday. The campaign, which will be officially launched on Monday March 3, 2014, also aims to encourage victims of extortion to come forward and report it to the police.

In the meantime, the Police are urging citizens to follow the guidelines provided to reduce the risks of extortion:

Before making a donation to what you believe is a worthy cause, ask your local police to assist you to verify if the cause is genuine.

Do not encourage verbal requests from individuals and organizations seeking assistance; ask that the request be put in writing, with authorised signature of the person or representative of the entity making the request.

Report to the Police immediately or as early as possible, any threat against one’s life or property by people demanding money or any other benefit.

Enhance your security by installing security camera(s) and/or recording devices that are capable of recording evidence.

Upon receiving an extortion letter or any demand by way of the Internet, email or text messaging or voice note, contact the Police immediately. Do not make an alarm. Maintain your composure and take steps to preserve evidence. Note the date, time, number from which the call originates and number to which the call terminates. Record all subsequent conversations with suspects if possible.

Do not make announcements about any contact with the police.

Do not withhold any relevant information from the police.

Do not rule out conspiracy between extortionist(s) and staff members or members of the household.

When engaged in discussion with extortionists, make every attempt to record in detail the particulars of the individual(s) such as: name, address, telephone number, mode of travel, description of the individual(s), method of payment requested, time and frequency of payment requested, purpose for which money is requested and any demands or threat issued by the suspect(s).

The police are also urging that if you are a victim or know about the practice of extortion in your community, call the Anti-Extortion Hotline at 579-5940, facsimile at 977-5627 and send your emails to antiextortionunit@jcf.gov.jm. You may also contact Crime stop at 311 or the police 119 emergency number.