KINGSTON, Jamaica—Opposition Leader Mark Golding is doubling down that members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) should wear body-worn cameras during specialised operations.

“There’s no principled reason whatsoever why the police, especially those going on specialised operations, should not wear body-worn cameras. It’s a technology that has been deployed by police forces in many different jurisdictions, and it will help to build confidence and trust in the police force among the citizens. Whereas right now, in some cases, there are grave concerns in relation to some of the police fatal shootings,” Golding said during an interview with Observer Online on Tuesday.

The opposition leader said the wearing of body-worn cameras by police officers will enhance the security of the country and build the reputation of the JCF.

“I think this will enhance the security of the country, build the reputation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, and lead to a more just and fair Jamaica. That is why I think the minister of national security is going down the wrong path by belittling and denigrating numerous groups in the society who are calling for this,” Golding added.

Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang has received much criticism from members of the public and civil society groups following his comments that the police will not be wearing body cameras on operations where they are confronting armed criminals, dismissing the call for them to do so as “a crazy idea”.

READ: ‘A crazy idea!’

(Video: Llewellyn Wynter)