Member of Parliament for Eastern Portland and Opposition Spokesperson on Youth and Human Rights, Isat Buchanan, has condemned what appears to be another disturbing incident of alleged police brutality, following the circulation of a video on social media that reportedly shows members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force physically assaulting a Toyota Coaster bus driver and another civilian, while also causing damage to their personal property.

Mr. Buchanan said he is deeply disturbed by the footage, noting that if the events depicted are accurate, they represent another deeply troubling instance of the use of force by officers entrusted with upholding the law. “This follows a series of recent videos that have sparked national concern regarding the conduct of some members of the security forces in their interactions with ordinary citizens,” Mr. Buchanan said.

He stressed that the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s mandate to “serve, protect and reassure” cannot coexist with conduct that appears to undermine public confidence, infringe upon the dignity of citizens, or suggest the unnecessary use of force. “Within the span of just two days, Jamaicans have witnessed yet another incident that appears to show civilians being assaulted. This cannot become our national norm,” he stated.

Mr. Buchanan pointed to the Constitution of Jamaica, through the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees every citizen the right to life, liberty, security of the person, protection from arbitrary treatment, and the protection of property. “These constitutional guarantees are not suspended simply because an individual is stopped by law enforcement. Every exercise of police power must remain lawful, necessary, proportionate and accountable,” he said.

While acknowledging the difficult and often dangerous work undertaken by the police in combating crime, Mr. Buchanan emphasised that this responsibility carries with it an equally important obligation to exercise restraint and professionalism. “Public confidence in law enforcement depends not only on reducing crime but also on the faithful observance of the rule of law and respect for the constitutional rights of every Jamaican,” he added.

The Opposition Spokesperson is calling for an immediate and comprehensive investigation by the relevant State authorities into the incident. “The facts must be established swiftly, independently and transparently, and where wrongdoing is found, those responsible must be held fully accountable,” Mr. Buchanan said.

He also called on the leadership of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, including the Commissioner of Police, to provide the Jamaican people with a clear explanation of what transpired, the circumstances surrounding the actions of the officers involved, and the measures that will be implemented to prevent similar incidents from recurring. “The people of Jamaica deserve policing that is professional, accountable and rooted in respect for the Constitution. 

Every allegation of excessive force erodes public trust and weakens the relationship between the police and the communities they are sworn to serve. “This pattern cannot continue unchecked. Accountability strengthens policing; it does not weaken it. Respect for human rights is not an obstacle to effective law enforcement; it is an essential pillar of justice and democracy.