KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has commended the improved operations of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) as the police move to strategically deal with crime in the country.

In a statement on Friday, Holness said the operation in Negril, Westmoreland where officers confronted alleged robbers is the result of improved intelligence work by the police.

Four of five suspected robbers were killed during an alleged confrontation with members of the Counter Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) in Negril Square. The deceased have not yet been identified but Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fitz Bailey said the suspected robbers are believed to be part of a criminal organisation that has been targeting Beryllium Limited.

READ: UPDATE: Men killed believed to be part of criminal network targeting Beryllium Limited

Speaking after the incident, Holness said, “We could say that this is a warning to all the criminals that the JCF of today is not the JCF of ten years ago. The JCF of today is more strategic, it has an enduring force it is a using intelligence, information cyber and all kinds of intelligence and it is putting it all together in an operational plan which is not just targeted at gangs but it is targeted as masterminds, it is targeted at street level and in my opinion it is very effective and we are seeing the results.”

The prime minister noted that this is the result of a deliberate policy decision to invest in the equipment, intelligence, training and leadership of the JCF.

“There is a visible and tangible change in the operation stance of the JCF but that is as a result of great investments that the governments have made in the equipment, in the intelligence, again in the operation such as investigations but more so I think where we are getting the greatest pay off is the investment in the leadership and training and the development of a very robust law enforcement doctrine in the JCF which we are seeing the result of.”

“Just today we got a report of an intelligence-lead operation by the security forces which resulted in the interception and the proactive work in derailing other robberies and I think that the operation has been very effective, the persons who were involved, unfortunately they lost their lives but I am certain that the security forces took all precautions and used the appropriate force,” he continued.

In the meantime, Holness emphasised the critical importance of fostering a robust relationship between the police and residents to enhance public safety and effectively combat crime.

He also highlighted the advancements in the capability to intercept criminals before they commit crimes, leading to their displacement from their deemed comfort zones.

The prime minister noted that displaced criminals might seek refuge in peaceful communities, necessitating a strong, proactive police-community bond to prevent them from finding shelter or protection.

“What we need to create in Jamaica, is a bond between the police and the citizens. The citizens need to realise that the police is here to protect them and we want them to understand that their security is best served by the police force,” Holness said.

He explained that the key to maintaining peaceful communities is ensuring that there is no space for criminals to operate.

“It is important that the police develop a strong relationship with the residents, ensuring that there is no encouragement or protection offered to these individuals within communities,” the prime minister said, adding that this mutual understanding will significantly diminish the opportunities for criminals to exploit community spaces.

Holness commended the efforts of the police force noting that positive reports and effective strategies are indicative of progress.

“The general strategy is working, and it is reassuring to see the positive impact. I extend my compliments to the men and women of our police force for their hard work and commitment to keeping our communities safe,” he said.