JDF called out as cops launch 'sick out'

The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) says, as long as necessary, it will continue to give support to the police force hit by ongoing industrial action.

The restive rank and file Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) members have been off duty since last night and they have indicated that their protest could last up to five days.

They are taking action to press their demands for an improved wage offer from the Government.

The JDF has been called out to assist in police work as more than 1,000 JCF members have called in sick across the island.

Media relations officer for the army, Major Basil Jarrett, says the JDF will maintain its support as long as it is necessary.

Meanwhile, he says today’s work involved the usual police assistance along with the reassessing how troops are positioned across the country.

Citing security reasons, Major Jarrett declined to give the number of army personnel called out today as well as how they are being positioned across the country.

The police protest comes as the JCF grapples with an 18-per cent increase in murders so far this year.