JCF clarifies close protection is based on office and risk assessments

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has again sought to clear up how close protection is granted, stressing that the practice is neither automatic nor random. The clarification follows recent public debate over public officials who say they face danger yet lack sufficient security cover.

In an official statement, the force noted that close protection officers are specially trained police personnel attached to the Protective Services Division. That unit decides who receives close protection when their post, duties, or situation call for it.

According to the JCF, some constitutional and public offices carry close protection as a standard feature of the role. Anyone outside that automatic category is subject to a full threat and risk assessment that weighs multiple factors. The results are recorded and then used to decide whether dedicated protection is warranted.

Serving Cabinet ministers receive close protection because of the offices they occupy and the duties tied to their portfolios. For members of parliament who previously served as ministers, any ongoing arrangement depends on the same formal assessment process. If that review finds that dedicated close protection is no longer justified by the risk level, other security options may be applied where suitable.

The force also emphasised that placements are not made at whim. Because the work is specialised and resources are limited, each deployment must rest on a clear, proven security need. The JCF said it must therefore put those scarce assets where they are most needed.

The Constabulary reaffirmed its duty to keep Jamaicans safe, saying close protection decisions rest on professional risk assessment, operational necessity, and careful use of public funds, with the aim of matching security to those who need it most.