KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) High Command says it has taken disciplinary action against cops engaged in a Tik Tok trend, arguing that their “actions depicted in the video reinforce several negative stereotypes associated with our force.”

“Such representations are not consistent with our current transformational thrust towards building a professional organisation,” the JCF High Command said in a statement on Tuesday.

“The JCF has made significant investments to raise the standards of our people, quality and technology and – as such – such behaviour will not be tolerated,” the JCF warned.

It pointed out that the disciplinary actions have been taken against the members in keeping with the force’s commitment to maintaining professional conduct.

“This measure is part of our broader effort to ensure that all personnel’s behaviour is consistent with the policies and ideals of the JCF. It is important to reiterate that this is not an isolated incident. There have been other instances where members, while in JCF uniform, have used their personal social media platforms to publish content that could potentially bring the organisation into disrepute. The JCF High Command categorically states that such behaviour will not be tolerated,” the statement read.

It went on to say that all members of the JCF should be reminded that under the regulations of the Book of Rules, it is a breach of conduct to publish or cause to be published any form of communication while wearing the JCF uniform without the express permission of the commissioner of police, obtained through the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit.

“The uniform of the JCF is a symbol of trust, responsibility, and public service, and it must be worn with the utmost respect and professionalism. During the course of this year, the JCF will undertake a wide scale sensitisation programme focused on reminding our members of their responsibilities for responsible social media use,” it said.

“While we acknowledge that our members are entitled to a degree of freedom of expression on their personal social media platforms, they must be reminded that, even in their private capacity, they can be identified as JCF members. As such, they must avoid any behaviour that may be deemed as unbecoming of a policeman or policewoman,” the statement added.

The JCF High Command also stated that it remains committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and service, and it is urging all members to reflect these standards in all aspects of their professional and public lives.