Stop interfering in police operations, JCF warns citizens

The leadership of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is again raising concerns about what it says is the frequency with which members of the public continue to interfere in police operations, especially in cases where an arrest is being made in a public space.

According to the JCF, there has been numerous incidents in recent months in which uniformed police personnel attempting to effect an arrest not only face resistance from the alleged offender, but also from members of the public.

The JCF says some of these incidents, which result in police personnel being assaulted, are captured on phone videos and shared on social media.

"As such, the (Police) High Command is reminding citizens that they have a responsibility to comply with the instructions of the police when they are being arrested," the JCF said in a statement released yesterday.

"Failing which, the arresting officer may use whatever proportionate force necessary to safely effect the arrest," it warned.

In addition, the JCF is urging citizens who may be in an area where an arrest is being effected not to crowd the police or interfere with the process in an attempt to try and free the accused person.

"This not only obstructs the police but also exposes the officers and the accused person/s to increased risks," it cautioned.

Pointing to the Independent Commission of Investigations and its internal unit, the Inspectorate of the Constabulary, JCF said there are numerous avenues for redress in cases where an accused person feels he or she has been wronged by the police.

It also warned that persons who interfere with the police in the lawful execution of their duties will be liable to prosecution.