Mark Titus, Freelance Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The large-scale transfers of some 40 rank-and-file members of the St. James Police Division has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders in the parish.

Clayton Morgan, president of the Cornwall Bar Association, believes the Police High Command needs to tell the public the reason for the mass transfers.

"The public needs to be told the reasons for this massive transfer, it is obvious that something is wrong and we are very concerned," he said. "In my view, they are only making a bad situation worse, by keeping us in the dark and causing us to speculate."

The transfers, which took effect on January 9, have resulted in several senior detectives being reassigned to the parishes of Kingston, Manchester, St. Ann, St. Thomas and St. Mary.

Shockwaves

The action has sent shockwaves through the force, with many persons speculating on the reasons behind the multiple transfers.

However, Marilyn Nash, administrator at the Flankers Peace and Justice Centre in St. James, is of the opinion that having new police personnel in the parish is an opportunity for a better relationship between the informal communities and the law enforcement personnel.

"With what has been going on in and around Montego Bay, I think we need some fresh eyes, and new thoughts. We also need police personnel who are willing to learn about us, and who will come up with ideas on how to counter to situations as they confront our communities," she said.

President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Pauline Reid, says her organisation is in support of the decision.

"It is my belief that the Police High Command in their wisdom would have seen it fit to effect these transfers and, if it means a more effective security force, then as a chamber we support this decision," she stated.