KINGTSON, Jamaica – Since the start of the year, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Quick Response teams have effected more than 1,000 arrests, seized 19 firearms and issued more than 13,000 traffic tickets, says Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dr Kevin Blake.

He made the disclosure during a ceremony at the Police Commissioner’s Office in Kingston on Friday during the handover of 74 motorcycles to the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch.

Blake said the JCF has been on a robust transformation journey aimed at presenting a professional workforce that consistently delivers quality service through the utilisation of the most modern tools and technologies.

“The receipt of essential equipment, such as these motorcycles, furthers this agenda. These 74 motorcycles come at an opportune time to be deployed islandwide as we begin scaling up our presence to provide reassurance and peace of mind for law-abiding citizens as they engage in shopping, entertainment and other leisure activities during this coming Yuletide season,” Blake said.

He assured that the JCF’s members will be out in their numbers to ensure that persons have a safe and peaceful holiday shopping experience.

“For persons with ill intent, I have a message for you. I encourage you to think twice and try to peacefully enjoy the holiday season because, if not, we are also preparing accommodation for you,” Blake warned.

Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner said the additional motorcycles represent an investment in the national security toolkit that the JCF does not take lightly.

“We recognise our responsibility to safely and strategically use these assets to maintain law and order by actively intercepting and engaging those whose sole intent is to disrupt and cause mayhem,” Blake pointed out.

“In the same breath, I want to urge our police officers to use these responsibly, giving due care to their upkeep and maintenance. I use this platform as an opportunity to convey our assurance that the vehicles allocated to us are under the meticulous management and surveillance of our ISO 9001-certified Transport Management and Maintenance Division. Furthermore, through our established framework agreements with garages across the island, the… uptime of our operational fleet is significantly improved,” he added.

Blake further noted that as the JCF’s capabilities are strengthened, they continue to invite well-thinking Jamaicans and members of the business community to join in combatting crime and criminality.

“Our mobility is key to saving lives and we will put these motorcycles to work as we continue to help keep our people safe. Our commitment to public safety remains resolute, and we stand united in our collective effort to ensure the well-being of our country as we remain a force for good,” he said.

– JIS