JCF official says probe could be launched into PNP corruption scandal
Published:Thursday | September 1, 2016 | 1:12 PM
A member of the hierarchy of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says an investigation could be launched into the People's National Party (PNP) campaign money scandal.
There have been allegations of corruption with claims that Chinese firms doing business here usually pay an agent fee to persons appointed by government ministers to receive kickbacks.
This morning, a high-ranking cop told The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre that an investigation could be launched if the corruption allegations are credible.
The senior cop also said the police have the power to initiate any investigation without being invited to do so.
The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre understands that already there have been discussions within the force and they could continue when Commissioner of Police Dr Carl Williams returns to the island tomorrow.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Glenmore Hinds who is acting commissioner could not be reached for a comment.
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Contacted this morning, the head of the Police Corporate Communication Unit, Superintendent Stephanie Lindsay, reserved comment.
She said while the police typically have to receive a complaint to do investigation, only senior cops in the High Command usually authorise probes without receiving a complaint.
Meanwhile, up to late yesterday, the Police Fraud Squad had not opened an investigation into allegations that senior members of the PNP who collected millions of dollars to finance the party's election campaign have failed to turn over the money.
The Fraud Squad said no one from the PNP had come forward and make a report to the police.
It noted that fraud investigations are only initiated after a complainant comes forward to report an allegation.
The Office of the Contractor General is yet to respond to questions as to whether it will be probing certain allegations while the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency has reportedly said it is monitoring the scandal.