Jamaicans must comply with no-movement and evacuation orders under disaster measures - Police

Jamaicans are being urged by the police to adhere to emergency measures now in effect under the Disaster Risk Management Act, which was activated by the Government amid Hurricane Melissa.

Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Strategic Operations, Warren Clarke, in an update on Monday, said Jamaicans must comply with any directives that may be issued under the law, including no-movement orders or evacuation instructions.

"The JCF will be responsible for enforcing these measures to ensure everyone's safety," Clarke said.

"We appeal to all to hunker down and expect that there will be no movement. It is crucial that during the passage of the eye, everyone remains indoors. This is not a time to venture outside," he cautioned.

He disclosed that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has mobilised approximately 12,000 personnel across Jamaica, with another 2,000 officers on standby to be recalled from leave, if required.

Clarke said that cops have been strategically deployed to secure communities, critical infrastructure, and scheduled premises, which include Jamaica House, Gordon House, King's House, and the headquarters of ministries, departments, and agencies.

Further, Clarke said highway patrols are monitoring main thoroughfares across Jamaica and mobile patrols are active in residential and business districts.

Specialised units are pre-deployed and prepared for rapid deployment, he added.

He said the JCF is working in close partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force to secure key entities such as Petrojam, airports, hospitals, business districts, and major road networks.

Areas vulnerable to flooding or other severe impacts are also being closely monitored.

Clarke noted that the force has activated its emergency response mechanisms across all parishes.

"All our Incident Command Centres are operational across the island. We are fully integrated with the National Emergency Operation Center at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and with the Parish Disaster Preparedness Committees' command centres. This ensures a coordinated and efficient response at the national and local levels."

Clarke said post-storm operations will focus on securing citizens and public property, preventing looting, supporting shelters, and assisting with rescue and relief efforts.

In the meantime, the deputy commissioner reported that sufficient hurricane equipment and supplies are available, with heavy-duty assets positioned islandwide.

He said the JCF's Technology Branch will ensure the stability of communication networks and emergency command systems throughout the storm.

"Generators are fuelled, systems are in place, and adequate personnel are deployed for rapid response if necessary. If there is any disruption to wireless communication, immediate action will be taken to restore service," Clarke said.

"Be assured that the Jamaica Constabulary Force is fully prepared and dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of all Jamaicans and guests during this challenging time. We will do everything in our power to support the nation through Hurricane Melissa."

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