KINGSTON, Jamaica — Members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Jamaica Defence Force have commenced human rights training in preparation for working in the zones of special operations.

The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) (Special Security and Community Development Measures) Act was reviewed, debated and passed in less than a month, notwithstanding the objections of the Opposition, which has argued that the law infringes on constitutional rights.

Members of the Upper House passed the legislation on Friday, July 9 with 13 amendments, which the House of Representatives approved on Tuesday, July 11.

The Bill gives members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) certain powers that are required to address serious crimes, while at the same time upholding the rule of law and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.

It provides for the prime minister to declare any geographically defined area as a zone of special operations, if the commissioner of police and the chief of defence staff agree in writing that the area should be so declared.

The legislation also empowers members of the joint security forces to search a person, vehicle or place without a warrant, within a zone, if they reasonably suspect that an offence has been, is being or is about to be committed.

It also provides that a joint command may establish a cordon and declare a curfew in a zone; promote social and economic development in a zone through the efforts of the various government agencies and civil society; and provide for the establishment of a Social Intervention Committee to, among other things, develop a sustainable plan for the zone.