KINGSTON, Jamaica – Commissioner of Police Dr Carl Williams, in a letter to the Police Services Commission has indicated that he will proceed on early retirement, effective January 6, 2017.

Williams said that his decision to step down as police chief was based on personal reasons.

“My retirement is provided for on the basis of my age and years of service,” Williams wrote.

“Having enlisted in the JCF [Jamaica Constabulary Force] in February 1984, it has been my honour to have given more than three decades of tireless service to my country,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Security in a press release a short while ago said that Williams was desirous of retirement from the Jamaica Constabulary Force from October 18.

“Numerous efforts were made by members of the administration, the Police Services Commission, and the Minister of National Security to have the Commissioner extend his service, however these efforts did not succeed,” the release stated, adding that they respected the Commissioner’s decision “fully well knowing he has one of the most difficult and stressful jobs”.

In assuring the public, the ministry stated that there are qualified and competent people in the Police High Command from where the Police Services Commission will firstly choose an appropriate person to act for 90 days.

“The Ministry of National Security will be engaging the Police Services Commission to re-examine the terms of engagement for Commissioner of Police as the search begins for a suitable replacement within 90 days.

In the meantime, the Police High Command is assuring the public that now more than ever, and in tribute to Dr Williams, “the brave men and women of the JCF will redouble their efforts to ensure the safety of civilians, and peaceful enjoyment of the season,” the release stated.

Williams was appointed Commissioner in September 2014 after his predecessor Owen Ellington also opted for early retirement.

In 2015, Williams gave himself a perfect rating of 10 out of 10 as he launched a number of new and tweaked initiatives to go after criminals responsible for almost 90 per cent of the 602 murders recorded in the island over the first six months of this year.

Since the start of this year, nearly 1,200 people have been reported killed, a near five per cent increase when compared to last year.