FORBESGlenroy Sinclair
, Staff Reporter
POLICE COMMISSIONER Fran-cis Forbes has called an emergency meeting with all members of the Mobile Traffic Section of the Force for Monday to discuss complaints of corruption and incivility on the part of the law officers.
"I am getting too many complaints involving 'traffic police' particularly about taking bribes from motorists and their general lack of manners in dealing with the general public," the Commissioner said in a release.
"Police officers must understand that respecting the human rights of the Jamaican public begins with respecting dignity."
At the meeting, the law enforcers will be reminded of the Force's Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy and its requirements.
The Commissioner's comments follow a public forum on crime on Thursday night in which the unprofessional conduct of policemen, especially those who are given the task to do spot checks and traffic duties, dominated discussions.
The forum was hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Spanish Town and the Business District of Caymanas Gardens, at the Police Academy at Twickenham Park in St. Catherine.
Major concerns raised there included the high level of corruption in the police force, the verbal and physical abuse of citizens by the police, and the soliciting of money from motorists.
In response to the concerns, Assistant Commissioner Alrick Lecky, stressed that the Police Commissioner was aware that not all members of the constabulary were ethical.
"A corruption policy has been developed and should soon be implemented. The policy can only succeed if we get your support and co-operation," the ACP told the forum.
He also admitted to knowing that at times some members of the police force make demands on members of the public for undue rewards, but said in turn that some members of the public also offer bribes to the police.
"What I want to say is that either way, it is wrong and we want to count on your support to get rid of those of our members who are engaged in this nefarious activity," said Mr. Lecky.
