INDECOM To Oversee Gun Salute Investigation

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) in a written statement says it will be overseeing the investigation into an alleged gun salute that has been circulating in media reports and social media posts.

The recent media reports highlights the alleged discharge of firearms by police officers, in rural St. Andrew.

The Commission says it notes and commends the speedy response and action by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Commissioner of Police. The Commission adds that while it will have an oversight role in the investigation, enquires are being led by the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Criminal Investigations Branch (CIB) and the Inspectorate and Professional Standards Oversight Bureau (IPROB).

INDECOM says the Oversight Bureau (IPROB) has kept the Commission fully informed of the decisive actions taken to date, with regard to identifying officers and securing forensic material. Also, it adds that the Bureau will continue to provide the Commission with updates.

Additionally, the Commission says that the discharge of firearms by members of the Security Forces remains one of the top five incidents it investigates annually.

The Commission is reminding the public that gun salutes are illegal and the consequences of such inappropriate use of firearms can have adverse effects, causing injury or death. All firearm holders, including the government and those privately issued, are reminded of their duty to operate the weapon under the laws and policies for which it was assigned.