Prime Minister directs JCF to review its operational procedures when carrying out lawful evictions

September 14, 2026

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has directed the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to review its operational procedures when carrying out lawful evictions.

Dr. Holness gave the directive during a National Security Council (NSC) meeting recently.

The directive follows an operation in Cooper’s Pen, Trelawny on August 11, where several families were evicted from the lands they occupied.

The JCF has received public criticism after it was reported that it detained 25 men before the demolition exercise.

Some of the men have filed lawsuits against the state claiming false imprisonment and breaches of their constitutional rights.

In a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Holness said that while the police have a general duty to support the execution of court orders, he reiterated that this duty must be executed with professionalism and respect for the rights and dignity of those affected.