After a period of delay, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is now on track to receive a supply of police equipment that will be used to improve the operations of the force.

Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson said during a press briefing on Tuesday (February 7) that the delay was due to supply chain and budgetary issues caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But now things are back on track as the JCF seeks to have more technologically enhanced uniforms.

He shared that the new uniform will see officers being equipped with body armour, body cameras and weapons.

“This will allow our members to benefit from the advances made in police uniform technology available in first-world jurisdictions and is consistent with the modernisation programme of the JCF,” said the commissioner.

“We are acutely aware of the challenges the interruptive flow of these critical items presented for our officers and I want to commend my members for their commitment and resilience over that difficult period. They can rest assured that we are moving as swiftly as possible to resolve the outstanding issue,” he added.

Motorcycle drivers are also being trained as the JCF seeks to expand and improve its quick response capability. The commissioner stated that new motorcycles have been distributed to St Catherine North, St Andrew North, St Elizabeth, St James police divisions as well as to the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB).

The JCF is expected to expand its members, with a target set to recruit and train another 1,200 or more officers for the financial year 2022-2023.

Anderson said he was inviting “any young person, with a desire to put country above self, to make a difference and impact lives in a meaningful and positive way, to apply and join the JCF”.