Police condemns cop's killing

The Police High Command is condemning the killing of Detective Corporal Warren Campbell.

He was shot and killed on Patrick Drive, Kingston 20 last evening.

The High Command says the cowardly attack on the policeman is a manifestation of the real dangers that lurk in the Jamaican law enforcement environment on a daily basis.

The death of Corporal Campbell comes five days after retired Senior Superintendent Anthony Hewitt was shot dead.

The High Command adds that it is unfortunate that while the police dedicate their lives to serving and protecting the citizens of this country, there are those among them who actively plan law enforcers’ demise and seek opportunities to put these plans into motion.

The High Command says it is a stark reminder to all members of the constabulary that it is imperative to never drop their guard and that they pay attention to  personal safety taking all necessary steps to minimize  vulnerability.

According to the High Command, Corporal Campbell’s untimely death will no doubt leave members of the constabulary saddened but it is urging members, especially those investigators at the Organized Crime Investigation Division (OCID) who have already begun to probe the incident to channel their grief into efforts to bring the culprits to justice.

The commissioner says despite the grief the police are reassuring all law-abiding citizens that the constabulary remains resolute in its duty to safeguard lives and will continue working to ensure that all Jamaicans can claim full freedom, living their lives without fear and with confidence in the justice system.

Commissioner Ellington has expressed condolences to the policeman’s family and expresses gratitude to them for having allowed him to serve his country. He is assuring them that his memory will be honoured and that all efforts will be made to support them in their time of sorrow.

In the meantime, National Security Minister Peter Bunting says no effort will be spared in bringing the corporal's killers to justice.

While condemning the murder, Mr Bunting also expressed condolences to the family and colleagues of the slain cop.

Corporal Campbell is the first policeman on active duty to be slain since the start of this year.

Mr Bunting says that Jamaica is indebted to the men and women of the security forces who every day make tremendous sacrifices to protect citizens and attacks on them will not be tolerated.

He has called on the force to double their resolve to tackle the scourge of criminality.