Rasbert Turner, Gleaner Writer
SPANISH TOWN, St. Catherine:
COMMISSIONER OF Police Lucius Thomas has said that organised crime has become a monster in the last 10 years and is now a major problem facing the country.
The commissioner was speaking recently to members of the St. Catherine business community at a meeting at the Police Academy in Twickenham Park.
He told the gathering that organised crime, unlike legitimate business, is not encumbered by red tape, and its members have lots of available cash. Commissioner Thomas pointed to drug money, extortion and money from robberies as the three main areas driving the activity. He said until there is appropriate legislation to prosecute those caught with large sums of money that they are unable to account for, the problem will persist.
"It is very disheartening when you catch a man with $10 million and soon after, he gets back the money and walks free. This is not good," Thomas said.
The commissioner was quick to point out that several members of his organisation are corrupt and admitted that that was also hampering the process of change. He said there ought to be swift justice for policemen who are caught taking bribes. To this end, he said a new branch, the Professional Standard Branch, will come on stream this year. It will take over the functions of the Office of Professional Responsibility, the Bureau of Special Investigation and the Inspection Branch, popularly known as 'Never Never Land'.
Mr. Thomas told The Gleaner that police personnel sent to this new branch of the Jamaica Constabulary Force will be subjected to severe screening. A review of the members will be conducted every two years. The commissioner also encouraged members of the public to provide the police with information.
The meeting was held under the theme: 'It's Our Town, Let's Take It Back'.
