#Kingston, June 20, 2019 – Jamaica – Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, says the Government will be focusing on border security and control, to tackle the flow of illegal weapons into the island.
“Jamaica remains a major transhipment point for the narcotics
trade. When placed in this context, proper monitoring, multimodal surveillance
and increased border security become fundamental issues that must be addressed
in our overall crime-fighting architecture,” the Minister noted.
He was delivering the main address at the Passport, Immigration
& Citizenship Agency (PICA) Border Security Conference, held at the Terra
Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston on June 19.
Dr. Chang said the Government is devoted to providing the necessary
resources to protect Jamaica’s borders.
“The recent purchase of a maritime patrol aircraft and Bell 429
helicopters for use by the JDF indicate our commitment to strengthening the
aerial and maritime capabilities of our security forces. The newly established
JDF Maritime Air and Cyber Command is tasked to utilise these tools to protect
our borders,” he explained.
The Minister also noted that along with the provision of well-needed
equipment, the Government will continue to invest in the human resources within
the Ministry.
“I am committed to instilling values of service and enabling the
development of specialised skills through proper training of our law-enforcement
officers to assist them in improving the security of the borders,” he said.
Dr.
Chang expressed optimism that the focus on border security will have a positive
impact on the Government’s crime-fighting efforts.
“When
the expertise and skill of law enforcement, in all its modes, and Forces/Agencies
are combined with this extended capability on sea and air, I am confident that
countries such as ours can intercept and dismantle the criminal gangs that seek
to infiltrate our ports and borders,” he said.
Contact: Rosheika Grant
Release: JIS
Photographer: Mark Bell
Photo Caption: Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr Horace Chang, delivers the main address at the Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency (PICA) Border Security Conference, on Wednesday, June 19, at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston.