Disciplinary actions have been taken against police officers who were seen in a viral video engaging in a TikTok trend while in uniform.

This was revealed by the Jamaica Constabulary Force High Command in a statement, this afternoon.

The High Command explains that the actions were taken in keeping with the force’s commitment to maintain professional conduct. 

It adds that the measure is part of the broader effort to ensure that members’ behaviour is consistent with the policies and ideals of the JCF.

The JCF High Command says it notes with concern that the actions depicted in the video reinforce several negative stereotypes associated with the force. 

It states that such representations are not consistent with the current transformational thrust towards building a professional organization. 

The JCF says it has made significant investments to raise the standards of people, quality and technology and – as such – such behaviour will not be tolerated.

The JCF adds that the incident is not an isolated one, noting there have been other instances where members, while in JCF uniform, have used their personal social media platforms to publish content that could potentially bring the organization into disrepute.

Reiterating that such behaviour will not be tolerated the force is reminding members that under the regulations of the book of rules, it is a breach of conduct to publish or cause to be published any form of communication while wearing the JCF uniform without the express permission of the commissioner of police, obtained through the head of the Corporate Communications Unit. 

It adds that the uniform of the JCF is a symbol of trust, responsibility, and public service, and it must be worn with the utmost respect and professionalism.

The JCF says during the course of this year, it will undertake a widescale sensitization programme  focused on reminding members of their responsibilities for responsible social media use.

It adds that while it acknowledges that members are entitled to a degree of freedom of expression on their personal social media platforms, they must be reminded that, even in their private capacity, they can be identified as JCF members. 

As such, they must avoid any behaviour that may be deemed as unbecoming of a policeman or policewoman.