KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has moved to clarify how it assigns close protection officers (CPOs) to public officials following comments it says are being made in the public domain.

In a statement on Tuesday, the police noted that close protection officers are specially trained members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force assigned to the Protective Services Division (PSD).

The division is responsible for assigning close protection to individuals whose office, duties or circumstances warrant that level of security.

It stressed that the assignment of a close protection officer is not automatic in every case, but certain constitutional and public offices attract close protection by virtue of the office itself.

The police said where an individual does not automatically qualify for close protection, a comprehensive threat and risk assessment is conducted, based on a range of factors. The findings are documented and form the basis upon which a determination is made.

“Serving ministers of government are assigned close protection officers by virtue of the offices they hold and the responsibilities associated with those portfolios. In the case of Members of Parliament who are former ministers of government, the continuation of any close protection arrangement is determined through the established threat and risk assessment process,” it said.

The force noted that, where an assessment indicates that the level of risk no longer warrants dedicated close protection, alternative security measures may be considered where appropriate.

Highlighting that close protection officers are not assigned arbitrarily, the force stated that given the specialised nature of the function and the finite resources available, every assignment must be justified by a demonstrable security need.

The JCF noted it therefore has a responsibility to ensure that limited resources are deployed where they are most required.

“The Jamaica Constabulary Force remains committed to protecting all Jamaicans. Decisions regarding close protection are guided by professional risk assessment, operational necessity and the responsible management of public resources, with the overriding objective of ensuring that the right level of security is provided to those who require it most,” it said.