Regional police association condemns attacks on Jamaican cops

KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, CMC –  The Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations (CFPWA) Friday condemned the recent attacks on members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), particularly this week's murder of Constable Ricardo Fairclough.

“The loss of Constable Ricardo Fairclough is not just a loss to his family and colleagues, but a grievous blow to the entire law enforcement fraternity in the Caribbean,” the Kingstown-based regional organisation said in a statement.

It said that Fairclough had exemplified the dedication, bravery, and selflessness that are the hallmarks of their noble profession and that “his sacrifice will forever be remembered, and his commitment to keeping our communities safe will continue to inspire generations of police officers”.

Fairclough was shot during a robbery on Monday night in the St Ann parish, situated on the north coast of the island.

Police said Fairclough, who was attached to the St Ann Divisional Operational Support Unit, had gone to the assistance of an unidentified woman who had been shot and injured during a robbery.

CFPWA said that this brazen attack on law enforcement officers is not just an assault on individuals but an attack on the very fabric of society.

“It is a stark reminder of the dangers that our officers face every day as they work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and security of our citizens,” it said, noting that another Jamaican officer was shot and injured on April 17 while bravely attempting to prevent a brazen robbery.

“The CFPWA stands in solidarity with the JCF during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Constable Ricardo Fairclough. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the injured officer as he undergoes treatment and recovery.

“We firmly support the actions of the members of JCF whose swift and decisive actions already brought one of the perpetrators of this despicable act to justice. Such cowardly attacks on law enforcement officers cannot, will not and must never be tolerated. We urge the public to assist the police in their investigations and to stand united against all forms of violence and criminality,” the association said.

In its statement, the CFPWA questioned the absence of outcry from civil society in response to the recent attacks, saying “civil society plays a crucial role in advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights.

“Yet, in the face of such blatant acts of violence against those sworn to protect and serve, their silence is deafening.

“We call upon civil society organisations, community leaders, and the wider public to raise their voices in condemnation of this cowardly attack and to stand in solidarity with law enforcement officers. The safety and security of our communities depend on the bravery and dedication of our police force, and it is incumbent upon all of us to support them in their mission,” the CFPWA said.

It said that the lack of outcry from civil society not only undermines the morale of law enforcement officers but also sends a dangerous message that violence against such officers is acceptable or insignificant.

“We urge civil society to recognise the gravity of this issue and do not sit on the sideline when police officers are killed.

“Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to a society where the rule of law is upheld, where those who serve and protect are honoured and respected, and where acts of violence against law enforcement officers are met with the strongest condemnation from all sectors of society,” the CFPWA added.

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