KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) is reiterating its call for members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to wear body cameras in planned operations and for greater scrutiny of the increasing number of police-involved fatalities.

This call follows the fatal police shooting of 22-year-old Jamar Farquharson in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon, on September 15.

JFJ, in a media release on Tuesday, said the incident has raised serious concerns about police conduct and accountability.

“This incident, reminiscent of the 2024 shooting of Romario Sterling in Bog Walk, highlights the urgent need for police to wear body cameras and for greater scrutiny of the increasing number of police-involved fatalities. Video footage released by CVM News shows Jamar Farquharson opening his door and raising his arms in apparent surrender to police officers, yet he was subsequently killed,” JFJ said.

It continued, “The circumstances surrounding his death are under scrutiny, particularly given reports that police may have disconnected cameras during the incident, raising questions about what happened during those moments and the justification for the police officers to interfere with the cameras. If media reports are true that cameras were disconnected, this action further undermines transparency and accountability.”

READ: Family to lead protest after police killing in Cherry Tree Lane

The human rights group called for answers to the following questions:

• What were the specific circumstances that led to the use of lethal force against Jamar Farquharson, especially given his apparent surrender?

• If media reports are true that surveillance cameras were disconnected, why was this done, and what steps were taken to preserve other evidence that could clarify the events?

• What protocols were followed by the police during the search, and were there any legal justifications for their actions, including the search of the property and the handling of surveillance equipment?

JFJ also called for a timely completion of the investigation by the Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom).

“This incident demonstrates that standard body cameras are fully adequate for planned or tactical operations, since no rugged terrain or specialised equipment was required. We therefore reiterate our call for some of the cameras now being procured to be designated for use in these operations. It is also a timely reminder for the Police Commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, to update the public on the status of the procurement process and the intended deployment of body cameras within the Jamaica Constabulary Force,” JFJ added.