ST CATHERINE, Jamaica (JIS) — Residents of Hellshire in south St Catherine now have a police station in their community.

The facility was opened Thursday, April 17, by National Security Minister Peter Bunting.

The station’s strategic location will enable the police to conduct proximity and community policing, particularly on foot, which will bring them in direct and closer contact with the residents.  

The building was made available following the Ministry’s discussions with the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) to lease the structure, which the UDC owns in the community.

In his address, Bunting welcomed the partnership resulting in the station’s establishment. He said the UDC’s provision of the building is consistent with similar endeavours undertaken in other areas involving assets owned by several other State agencies.

The Minister also announced that a “suitable” building has also been identified at Lakes Pen, St Catherine, to house a police post in that area.

“This reinforces the partnership and gives us the opportunity to practise proximity policing… where we really make police personnel become a part of the community,” he added.

Bunting said the establishment of the Hellshire police station should increase the interaction and relationship between the police and residents.

“I get a sense that the citizens are resolved to partnering with the police force. I think it signals a community that is involved, concerned, and wants to partner with the police to bring safety and security and, very importantly, the perception of safety and security in the community,” he said.

Police Commissioner Owen Ellington,in his remarks, said that the Hellshire police station’s establishment is a “clear manifestation” of a willingness on the part of the police to change the manner in which they deliver service, and for the community to “embrace the police and work with us”, to create a safe and secure environment.

“We want this community to be preserved as a safe, peaceful, tranquil environment, for the orderly existence of citizens. We want the citizens of Hellshire to always be convinced that coming here to purchase a home, raise a family and do business, was the right decision, because the police are on board to protect your interest,” said Ellington.