Thursday, October 15, 2015
THE United States Embassy yesterday handed over 10 boats to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to assist in the country's crime-fighting efforts at sea.
The 37-foot Boston Whaler vessels, donated by the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, are valued at US$1.5 million.
Commissioner of Police Dr Carl Williams, who received the vessels during a ceremony at his Old Hope Road offices in St Andrew, expressed gratitude to the US Government for the generous contribution.
He noted that the donation of the vessels will significantly boost the fleet available to protect the country's borders. At present there are only six operational vessels for use by the Marine Police Division.
"Today, as I accept these boats, I cannot begin to explain how much of a difference they will make in improving the capacity of the marine police to protect our borders. It will more than double the fleet of reliable vessels that we have at the Marine Division," he said.
Dr Williams noted that the US is a key partner in crime fighting, supplying the JCF with 7,000 kits containing less lethal weapons last year, and only recently presented the Narcotics Division of the JCF with 10 cars to enhance the operations of the unit in drug trafficking investigations.
Additionally, the US Embassy will shortly be handing over bicycles to the JCF, and will also be providing body-worn cameras to be used in police operations.
"These will be used to ensure that police accountability is boosted and will enhance the human rights record of the JCF," Dr Williams said.
US Ambassador to Jamaica Luis Moreno said that the vessels are an important part of a collaborative effort between the governments of Jamaica and the US to boost the JCF's crime-fighting capabilities. more
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