KINGSTON, Jamaica — A total of 323 new constables who graduated on Wednesday, will be deployed shortly to strengthen the operations of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

According to a release on Thursday, the new constables, representing Batches 139, 141 and 142, graduated during a ceremony held at the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ) at Twickenham Park, St Catherine.

Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, who addressed the passing out parade, urged the newly minted police personnel to remain true to the mission of serving the citizens of Jamaica.

“Oftentimes you don’t get the kind of moral support you require from some of your community members, but [this is] a job that has to be done. It’s a job that is critical to the country’s development,” Dr Chang pointed out.

Dr Chang told the new constables that they are joining the JCF at a time when the Force is going through its greatest transformation. He said that the Government is focused on the development of the Force and enabling members to “demonstrate their professionalism, skills, commitment and sharp intelligence”.

“You will also find opportunities for those who are technically competent, as the JCF has developed a very strong and important technology branch. Technology is crucial to the work of the police in today’s world and the Government is committed to providing you with those tools,” he noted.

Chang said, further, that the Government remains committed to ensuring that the JCF has the necessary legislative framework and quality leadership to operate effectively.