Another crime-fighting initiative has been launched in St. James as the security forces grapple with the increasing murders and other crimes taking place in the parish.
The initiative, dubbed the ‘Elite Quick Response Unit’, was unveiled on Monday by the high command of the St. James Police.
The Elite Quick Response Team is a highly trained and equipped bike patrol team which is tasked with the responsibility of being first responders to incidences of crime, as well as to carry out traffic management operations.
Superintendent in charge of the St. James Police, Vernon Ellis, said the Elite Patrol team will be undergoing extensive tactical, technical and customer service training, which is aimed at ensuring that they are able to handle the new pieces of equipment which will form part of their tool of trade and to ensure that they are able to deliver quality service to members of the public.
“I want to say that you are to take this training seriously as you have a big job… a job to secure a city and protect a nation. This training will be one of the phases that will equip you to take your policing to another level, which will support the strategic objectives of the JCF. Our intention is to make this The Elite Quick Response Team,” Superintendent Ellis said.
He disclosed that the team will be given new, well-equipped motorcycles with the latest technology and high-tech gadgets, and encouraged them to carry out their responsibilities professionally, even under stressful conditions.
Superintendent Ellis said, “You won’t just be riding; you will be exposed to technology and we will give you an Elite Team. I said to officers all the time that this is a tough job. When you take on a job where the security of the nation depends on you, you must ensure that you carry out your responsibilities professionally. The entire nation is depending on you”.
Speaking at the launch of the Unit at the Montego Freeport Station, Mayor Davis said major gains have been made during the State of Public Emergency and the launch of this new patrol team is very timely.
He also charged the members of the Elite First Response Team to ensure that their actions are always carried out in a professional manner.