KINGSTON, Jamaica — Amid an atmosphere of glitter and glamour, colleagues of outgoing head of the Area 5 police, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips, gathered on Friday to pay tribute to his leadership and impact on the division.

The farewell reception, held at the Constant Spring Police headquarters, was marked by emotion as senior officers who worked closely with ACP Phillips expressed their admiration and gratitude while noting that he will be deeply missed.

Jason McKay with ACP Phillips (Photo: Llewellyn Wynter)

Speaker after speaker described Phillips as a “transformational leader”, lauding him for shaping lives, fostering professional growth and creating an environment in which officers were empowered to excel.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips pose for a picture with Superintendent Tomilee Chambers (Photo: Llewellyn Wynter)

As he was showered with gifts symbolising their appreciation, colleagues spoke of a leader who not only guided the division but also inspired personal and professional development among those under his command.

Business man Don Creary’s son, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips (centre) and Don Creary (Photo: Llewellyn Wynter)

In his response, ACP Phillips expressed gratitude and paid special tribute to Senior Superintendent Tomilee Chambers, who he noted was instrumental in planning the farewell reception.

He said he was “truly humbles” by the expressions of love and support while at the same time calling on other enforcement agencies to do more in curving public disorder.

“To look seriously and do their part because I am observing some complacency and lay back attitude in enforcement activities,” ACP Phillips said, adding “if we are going to restore full public order we are going to need all the other agencies on board.”

ACP Phillips will now move on to assume leadership of Area 3, which comprises the parishes of St Elizabeth, Manchester, and Clarendon.

(Video: Llewellyn Wynter)