Jamaica’s Police Commissioner, Dr. Kevin Blake, has delivered a firm response to criticisms from human rights group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) over the rising number of fatal police shootings, declaring that law enforcement will not back down from confronting violent criminals.
Blake emphasized that police officers do not seek violent encounters but will not hesitate to defend themselves and the public when necessary. He pointed out that many individuals detained by the police had made the “smarter choice” by surrendering instead of engaging in gun battles.
In a firm message to criminal elements, the Commissioner issued a direct warning against engaging police officers with deadly force.
“When the police come for you, do not raise your weapons against us. Lay down your weapons and have your day in court!” he urged. However, he made it clear that officers would not back down from confrontations.
“Should you choose the foolish option of challenging us with lethal force, know this: I do not train my police to lose. We have the superior training and firepower to ensure that we win every time,” he declared.