The brawl over the weekend involving popular TikToker TJ and his girlfriend, Moya, continues to make headlines and ignite islandwide backlash. It was also revealed that off-duty policemen were among the aggressors, leading to increased criticism directed at the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
An investigation has been launched into the incident, apparently after renowned journalist Cliff Hughes also raised the subject on his popular midday radio talk show on Monday. Hughes questioned what actions the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) would take regarding the off-duty police officers and why the JCF was not addressing the matter. The question was also raised as to whether or not the policemen would be suspended or arrested and charged for taking an order to assault someone.
Watch the video of Cliff Hughes below:
A statement was subsequently released, and the police commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, disclosed that the JCF had launched an internal investigation. The statement shared that all the necessary information was also handed over to the Independent Commission of Investigations (INECOM).
A press release from the Police High Command stated, “The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) High Command is aware of a video circulating on social media that shows an alleged incident involving off-duty personnel purported to be members of the JCF.”
The press release detailed that the investigation was launched through the “Inspectorate Professional Standards Oversight Bureau (IPROB) to determine the facts, including whether any policies were breached.”
Additionally, the release said that the authorities took immediate action when they became aware of the incident. The release further clarified that the JCF members can engage in private service, known as “extra work,” under strict guidelines set out in 2018.
The strict regulations are put in place to ensure transparency, ethics, and no conflict with officers’ duties. It continued by stating that all police officers are required to maintain professionalism, and any misconduct is taken seriously. The JCF emphasises accountability for breaches, prioritising integrity and public trust.
