Golding renews push for JCF body cameras on specialised operations

Opposition Leader Mark Golding is reiterating his position that officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) should be outfitted with body-worn cameras when carrying out specialised operations.

Speaking with Observer Online on Tuesday, Golding said there is no principled basis for resisting the move, particularly for officers assigned to specialised duties. "There's no principled reason whatsoever why the police, especially those going on specialised operations, should not wear body-worn cameras. It's a technology that has been deployed by police forces in many different jurisdictions, and it will help to build confidence and trust in the police force among the citizens. Whereas right now, in some cases, there are grave concerns in relation to some of the police fatal shootings," he said.

Golding argued that adopting the cameras would strengthen national security and lift the standing of the constabulary in the eyes of the public.

"I think this will enhance the security of the country, build the reputation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, and lead to a more just and fair Jamaica. That is why I think the minister of national security is going down the wrong path by belittling and denigrating numerous groups in the society who are calling for this," he added.

His remarks come amid mounting backlash directed at Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang, who drew criticism from members of the public and civil society after stating that officers would not wear body cameras during operations involving confrontations with armed criminals. Chang dismissed the proposal as "a crazy idea".