Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake has directed that the chair of the Police Officers’ Association (POA) be vacated and said the current holder will no longer be granted audience with the Police High Command, nor will he permitted to represent the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) outside of official duties.

“The High Command is concerned that reports of alleged indiscipline and misconduct by the chairman may compromise the conduct of the POA, particularly at a time when the organisation is required to engage in highly technical salary and benefits negotiations with the Government of Jamaica,” the JCF said in a release issued to its officers Monday afternoon.

The High Command did not give specifics of the allegations against POA Chairman Senior Superintendent of Police Wayne Cameron, however it said its position was reinforced by reports of the executive’s failure to meet to conduct the business of the POA, as well as to convene a general meeting over several years.

It also said the commissioner’s action, which was exercised under his powers of superintendence over the police force, is “necessary to safeguard the interests of all gazetted officers”.

The High Command said it will provide support, where necessary, to facilitate a smooth and timely transition.

In the interim, the remaining members of the POA Executive will appoint a Chairman protem who will lead the POA into a Special General Meeting for the purpose of electing a new Executive in accordance with established conventions.