Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Police Commissioner Major General Antony Anderson are among those paying tribute to former Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas, who passed away today (January 18).

Thomas was 73 years old.

In his tribute, Mr. Holness expressed condolences to the family and friends of Thomas.

Mr. Holness said Thomas dedicated about 40 years of his life to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, having joined in 1969 and rising through the ranks to become Commissioner of Police in 2005.

The JCF also expressed sadness, and extended condolences to Thomas’ family, friends and colleagues, who are mourning his death.

Police commissioner Anderson said Thomas gave sterling service to the JCF.

Thomas was born and raised in Murray Mountain, in rural St. Ann.

At 20 years old, he enlisted in the JCF, and over the years, served in various divisions, to include, mobile reserve, Kingston Central and special branch.

He rose through the ranks from Corporal in 1977, to Assistant Superintendent of Police in 1989, Senior Superintendent of Police in 1998, then Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the crime portfolio in 2001, after which he was promoted to Commissioner in 2005.

His loyal and dedicated service to the force and the people of Jamaica was recognized by the award for meritorious service in 1987. Thomas left the JCF in 2007.