The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has launched a Beat Officer Patrol Division (BOPD).

The rollout of the division, which aims to bolster public safety and strengthen community policing efforts, began on Monday morning in the Kingston and St. Andrew Metropolitan Area.

It will fall under the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB), led by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gary McKenzie.

ACP McKenzie says the division has started with approximately 150 officers but will see more personnel being added in short order.

He explains that the BOPD will focus on several key objectives, including high visibility, reassurance and community engagement.

He added that there are plans for the expansion of the BOPD into other urban centres across the country.