KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Police High Command is reminding that it is unlawful for police officers to solicit money or any form of payment from event promoters for the extension of cut-off times for events, and is urging the public to report such matters to the Inspectorate of Constabulary.

It was responding to a Sunday Observer article, which reported that members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force have been demanding money from some show promoters for them to prolong their entertainment events beyond the stipulated 2:00 am cut-off time for weekend events.

It was also reported that some show promoters have complained about the “unreasonable” demands made by some policemen who often enter events and insist on payment or a shutdown of sound systems or bands.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Police High Command is reminding that it is unlawful for police officers to solicit money or any form of payment from event promoters for the extension of cut-off times for events, and is urging the public to report such matters to the Inspectorate of Constabulary.

In a statement issued via the constabulary’s Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), the High Command noted that the rules governing the staging of events are clearly defined in the Noise Abatement Act.

Read more: Cops at it again! The Police High Command said it has taken these allegations seriously and advised that any unprofessional or criminal conduct observed by the public may be promptly reported to the Inspectorate of the Constabulary (IOC) by calling 876-906-5325 or 876-754-8217. Email may also be sent to the IOC at inspectorate@jcf.gov.jm. The IOC is responsible for ensuring strict adherence to the standards and procedures of the Constabulary Force and is currently being restructured to robustly address matters dealing with professional standards and breaches of the Corruption Prevention Act. “When making reports, individuals are urged to get as much information as possible, including the date and time of the incident, the markings written on the vehicles (in the case of marked vehicles) and the vehicle registration number. Persons should also seek to ascertain the Police’s regulation number, which should be visible on uniformed personnel. If the Police is in plain clothes or the regulation number is not visible, persons may ask the individual for his/her regulation number,” the statement continued. Information can also be shared by sending a letter marked ‘X’ at any post office or postal agency. The High Command assured that cases reported to the IOC are investigated with alacrity. Members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force are also being reminded that all duties must be performed with integrity and within the confines of the law.  

“Unprofessional conduct or any breach of the law by members is unacceptable and will not go without sanction/s, including criminal charges where applicable,” said the High Command.