KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr Kevin Blake has underscored the importance of investing in police personnel as central to strengthening crime-fighting efforts, pointing to new training programmes aimed at improving investigative capacity within the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Faculty of Criminal Investigation Training at the National Police College of Jamaica, Blake said initiatives such as the diploma in supervisory management for criminal investigation and the advanced diploma in professional detective practice represent deliberate efforts to professionalise the JCF’s investigative arm.

He said the programmes are designed to transform experienced officers into more effective supervisors and investigators, with a focus on leadership, accountability and coordination across operational units. The advanced diploma, he noted, builds on those foundations by equipping officers with skills in areas such as forensic case management, interviewing techniques, data analysis and specialised investigations.

Blake also highlighted ongoing structural changes within the force’s crime and security portfolio, including the development of a forensic services branch and the integration of intelligence and investigative elements under a focused deterrence strategy.

According to the police commissioner, these efforts form part of a broader push to modernise the organisation through an emphasis on personnel development, quality standards and the use of technology.

He argued that strengthening investigative capacity is critical to improving public safety, noting that the ability to gather strong evidence, solve crimes and secure convictions helps reinforce public confidence and deter criminal activity.

Addressing the graduates, Blake said they are expected to play a key role in maintaining investigative integrity within the organisation. He urged them to apply their training with precision as they take on greater responsibility in the JCF’s operations.