New police unit to hunt Jamaica’s most dangerous criminals

A new elite unit has been established in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and tasked with taking on the nation's most perilous criminal challenges and using advanced investigative methods to bring the most dangerous offenders to justice.

Named the Specialised Investigation Branch (SIB), The Police High Command says its establishment underscores the force's commitment to continuous institutional reform, modern policing standards, and the delivery of effective, accountable, and high-quality law enforcement services.

The new branch replaces and reorganises several elite investigative formations that previously operated independently within the Crime and Security portfolio.

The creation of the new Specialized Investigation Branch comes in the wake of issues uncovered at the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime (C-TOC) branch.

Two parcels of cocaine were recently discovered in C-TOC's storage facilities without proper documentation. In another incident, Inspector of Police Martin Walker, a member of the elite unit, was arrested after a large quantity of cocaine was found in his vehicle

Meanwhile, in announcing the SIB, the high command said the new unit is mandated to "focus on the investigation of complex, high-stakes, and sensitive matters, utilising advanced investigative techniques and the specialised support of intelligence and evidence-gathering capabilities".

In addition to its investigative functions, the SIB has been tasked with coordinating the efforts and resources of key partner agencies, ensuring sustained collaboration throughout the investigative and prosecutorial process.