Transport Authority pulls officer from frontline duties over video of gun incident

The Transport Authority says an employee seen in a video on social media "drawing a firearm during a road operation" has been removed from frontline duties as part of an internal probe.

"The authority wishes to unequivocally state that this type of conduct does not form any part of its training protocols and is not aligned with its Standard Operating Procedures or Public Interaction Policy," the entity said in a statement on Monday.

It says the officer was removed with "immediate effect".

The Transport Authority is the agency charged with the responsibility for the licensing of all public and commercial vehicles.

The regulator said it is also working closely with the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Firearm Licensing Authority “to ensure a comprehensive review of the incident.”

There were no details on when and where the incident occurred.

A video that circulated online last week shows an interaction involving persons vests marked 'Transport Authority', a man and a vehicle.

A man wearing one of the vests appeared to pull an object from his waist as the man moved toward the vehicle.

"Step back, sir," the man wearing the vest said. "Step back from the vehicle..."

"So, shot me den; shot me den," the man replied, as a policeman reversed the vehicle.

In its statement, the Transport Authority said it "continues to uphold the principles of courtesy, professionalism, good customer service, and respect for all Jamaicans, and expects all employees to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with these values".

"The Transport Authority assures the public that it remains committed to ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable public transportation service," it added.

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