INDECOM again calls for body cameras as 10 killed by security forces so far this year

By Clinton McGregor    

 

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is reporting 10 fatal shootings by the security forces since the start of the new year.

 

INDECOM Commissioner Hugh Faulkner is again calling for the use of body-worn cameras during planned operations.

 

"The Commission construes the data so far as being on par with the numbers for 2024, and 2024 recorded 189 fatalities, which was an increase of 34 on the 2023 figures involving the security forces. Accordingly, the Commission is repeating its call that the processes to acquire body-worn cameras are hastened so as to support the process of accountability and transparency in the operations of law enforcement and to enhance the diligence of the oversight processes," he proposed. 

 

Mr. Faulkner argued that body-worn cameras provide advantages in the investigative and justice processes by capturing a "neutral, holistic and impartial record of incidents and events". 

 

He said last year the Director of Public Prosecutions ruled that charges be laid against members of the security forces in 24 cases submitted by INDECOM.

 

Eight of the cases involved fatal shootings.

 

One of the eight cases involved a member of the Jamaica Defence Force while the remainder involved members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.