Ganja-toting inspector disappoints ACP Felice

Nedburn Thaffe, Gleaner Writer

Head of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Anti Corruption Branch (ACB), Assistant Commissioner of Police Justin Felice, yesterday described as "disappointing" the latest incident in which a high-ranking member of the force was nabbed with 150lb of ganja in what was said to be an intelligence-led operation.

"To see such a senior officer who was only recently promoted, and at a time when the confidence of the public in the police is increasing, it is really disappointing," Felice said yesterday.

The police inspector was nabbed on Saturday when the vehicle he was driving was intercepted along the Mandela Highway and searched by members of the ACB. According to a release from the Constabulary Communication Network, the inspector was held with three carton boxes and a knapsack filled with compressed ganja wrapped in masking tape.

Felice, while not divulging much information, said it appeared the marijuana was destined for export. He also disclosed that the inspector, who has more than 12 years' service in the constabulary was assigned to the Mobile Reserve Department in a Corporate Area police division.

The inspector was in custody awaiting the completion of the case file and a ruling from the director of public prosecutions.

Since January, a total of 22 police personnel have been arrestedon corruption-related matters. Eighteen of those arrested have since been charged. The list of those charged includes 15 constables, two corporals and a sergeant.