KINGSTON, Jamaica —  Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake is advising that he is currently out of office on departmental leave following concerns shared on social media about his absence.

In a Saturday morning statement, Blake cited speculation circulating on social media and reassured the public that his absence was planned several months in advance.

“I am making this clarification because of the growing danger posed by the deliberate creation and circulation of false information, particularly on social media. In today’s environment, some persons appear willing to create stories simply to attract attention, generate likes, shares and engagement, without considering the damage that such irresponsible behaviour can cause to individuals, institutions and public confidence,” the commissioner stated.

Blake emphasised that the public deserves the facts when there is genuine uncertainty about an important matter.

The commissioner is due to be back in office on Monday, September 14.