Two human rights advocacy groups are again calling on lawmakers to make the use of body-worn cameras by the police mandatory.

The appeal was made by Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) and Stand Up For Jamaica (SUFJ) in a joint release.

It comes amidst concern about the rising number of police fatal shootings.

240 such deaths have been recorded since the start of the year.

In a statement yesterday, JFJ and SUFJ commended the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) for its comprehensive and alarming special investigative report on planned police operations (PPOs) by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Released last week, the report highlights a sharp rise in PPO-related fatalities, driven largely by Area Fugitive Apprehension Teams.

The report reveals a 591% surge in PPO-related deaths from 2021 to 2024.

JFJ’s Executive Director, Mickel Jackson, said this is a cause for concern.

Meantime, Ms. Jackson welcomed a recent announcement by the JCF that 1,000 body cams are being procured.

She called on the High Command to make a public commitment that a significant portion will be deployed for PPO teams.

The lobby groups also want lawmakers to play their part by making the use of body-cams mandatory.