KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Government is reiterating its commitment to the modernisation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, said that there has been significant progress in making the force more agile and capable of responding to a wide spectrum of threats.

He said that the transformed and modernised police force is now driven by data, technology, and a broad spectrum of specialised capabilities.

“The JCF’s new mantra, ‘A Force for Good’, signals the deliberate effort that is being made to rebrand and reposition our national police even as we make the bold investments to ensure that Jamaica has a first-class police force,” Chang said.

He was speaking on March 1 at a Diplomatic Week briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, downtown Kingston.

Dr Chang told the diplomats that emphasis is being placed on improving investigative capacity “including the use of advanced technology, integrated intelligence, and the formation and strengthening of mission-oriented units.”

“To date, these improved capabilities have resulted in the implementation of a modern case management system, and increased use of forensic science in case development,” Chang said.

He noted that significant investments are being made to increase the size of the force while ensuring that personnel perform their duties at the highest professional standards.

“We have expanded the facilities of the National Police College of Jamaica and acquired additional police training facilities. By so doing, we have [increased] the capacity of the police force to train up to 1,500 new recruits per year. We are implementing an expanded suite of training opportunities for police officers,” the minister said.

Diplomatic Week was observed from February 27 to March 3 under the theme: ‘Transcending Borders, Strengthening Partnerships, Advancing Development.’