Citizen rage out west as search for cop stalls
Published:Tuesday | October 12, 2010 | 12:00 AM
WESTERN BUREAU:
Residents of St James and Hanover have criticised former and present administrations for failing to properly outfit the security forces with appropriate equipment to aid in search-and-rescue operations.
The complaints swirled yesterday after efforts by the St James police were thwarted as private divers searched rough seas for Special Sergeant Eric Haughton, 58, who went missing in the Great River area late Sunday evening.
As all efforts failed, residents became upset when they learnt that the three boats assigned to the marine police had been out of service, as well as the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard vessel.
"I am disturbed that the equipment that should be in place for saving lives, particularly during the hurricane season, is out of commission," remarked resident Dr Lee Bailey.
Said Bailey: "It is unfortunate to learn that the security forces' boats were not available to respond to that particular need."
Senator Dwight Nelson, minister of national security, admitted late last evening that he was aware of the deficiencies facing the St James police, and the security forces by extension, but pointed out that his administration had inherited the problem.
"We are taking steps to address the situation, but I cannot give a timeline," Nelson told The Gleaner. "We are talking with international partners. These are expensive commodities and we are trying to secure the resources."
Boat spotted
Haughton, a 32-year veteran, was responding to a report that a privately owned boat had been stolen. The boat was spotted and the policeman was assisting the complainant to pilot the boat into Montego Bay when it capsized because of strong currents. The complainant was rescued but Haughton has not been seen since.
Late yesterday, contact was made with Noranda Bauxite Company in St Ann, which sent two employees with a specialised underwater camera to aid with the search. By then, however, a private Captain's Water sports boat, which had been assisting with the search, was already back at at base, forcing activities to be called off.