Follow the law and report all police-involved shootings, INDECOM tells JCF

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) says it is seriously concerned by media reports that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is pursuing active investigations into allegations of police-involved shootings involving two police officers without any notification to the commission, formal or otherwise.

In a statement on Thursday, INDECOM noted that the JCF is legally bound to notify the commission forthwith of any incident involving conduct by its members that results in the death of, or injury to, any person.

“The Act expressly mandates immediate reporting of such incidents to the commission,” said the oversight body, which is mandated to investigate incidents involving members of the security forces.

“The failure by the JCF to refer these matters to INDECOM undermines the statutory oversight framework established by Jamaica’s Parliament and compromises the transparency and independence intended in investigations of alleged police-involved incidents,” INDECOM charged.

The commission said it has written to the JCF High Command requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the matter, as it seeks to ensure strict adherence to statutory requirements in current and future incidents.

“It is to be recognised that compliance with these reporting obligations is not discretionary.”

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.