The establishment of a point of contact for the diaspora to address specific concerns about cases is among a number of security measures that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) plans to introduce as a mechanism to ensure the safety of returning residents.

This comes against the background of the recent crimes committed against returning residents and the concerns expressed by members of the diaspora to Commissioner of Police Antony Anderson during recent meetings in the United Kingdom.

In a release yesterday, the JCF offered the assurance to returning residents that their safety and security remained a high priority of the constabulary. It said that strategies and support systems were currently being bolstered for their protection.

"It is also being considered to establish a service to do background checks, on request, of persons who returning residents wish to employ," the JCF said. "A liaison officer will also be appointed in each police division to monitor and provide returning residents with timely feedback on policing matters. Meetings will also be held regularly at the divisional level to enhance the sharing of important information," the constabulary added.

The release further stated that the measures would be augmented with a number of investigative strategies that would pay particular attention to cases involving returning residents.

"Our focus on the safety and protection of our returning residents is unequivocal. We take all reported incidents of crimes against them seriously and will further our work with our partners in government and non-government organisations to ensure communities are safe spaces for all who live, work, or visit," Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Crime Selvin Hay said.