KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – A $3 million computer centre, outfitted with Wi-Fi access, was officially handed over to the Mobile Reserve of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) on Wednesday.

The facility is equipped with 10 computers, a printer, a projector and a screen, and will be used as a training centre for officers, facilitate report and statement writing, as well as research and analysis of crime patterns, trends and concealment techniques.

It was established through funding from the Universal Service Fund (USF), and involved collaboration between the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining.

Technology Minister Phillip Paulwell, in his remarks at the opening ceremony, said the project “is a clear demonstration of our commitment to empowering people through increased access to information communications technologies (ICTs) and their tremendous potential for advancing professional development.”

He announced that he will be looking to extend broadband Wi-Fi access to the entire Mobile Reserve premises.

State Minister Julian Robinson noted that the computer centre was established out of the need for a facility to accommodate officers, who are engaged in academic programmes.

“To the extent that this computer lab provides the opportunity for them to advance their own academic training to help them in their professional work in the JCF, I am very happy that we as a Government could provide that,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of National Security Peter Bunting acknowledged the support of the USF, towards advancing the technological capabilities of the police force.

Commissioner of Police Dr Carl Williams also expressed appreciation to the Ministries on behalf of the 700 members of the Mobile Reserve, noting that the facility will help to advance efficiency and promote the professional development of the team.

This Mobile Reserve computer centre brings to 219, the number of community access points set up by the Technology Ministry through the USF.

Its establishment is in keeping with JCF’s Corporate Strategic Priority (Number Six), which speaks to modernisation through technology.