The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says it has 750 body-worn cameras (BWCs).

Others already in procurement will be deployed before the end of the year.

The JCF made the comment, as it addressed a recent call by lobby group, Jamaicans for Justice for BWCs to be present and active during security operations, amid a surge in fatal shootings by members of the security forces.

According to the Independent Commission of Investigations, 28 people were fatally shot last month, 15 more than the 13 deaths in January last year.

The JCF said it prioritised the development of the infrastructure needed to support the widespread deployment of BWCs.

It added that as a critical first step, over the past three years, several billion dollars have been invested in data storage solutions, network capacity and digital security systems to ensure that the cameras function reliably, and the data they capture remains secure.

With that foundation now in place, the JCF said it has moved to the next phase of expanding the number of cameras in use.

It explained that given the current availability of BWCs, a deployment strategy has been implemented to maximise their effectiveness.

It noted that the primary focus has been on public order policing, where BWCs have already reduced confrontations and improved accountability in police-citizen interactions.

The JCF said operational deployment decisions are made by the constabulary based on strategic priorities and operational needs.