Thieves steal windows from police station

Thieves are reportedly making off with infrastructure at the newly built Green Acres Police Station in St Catherine which remains unoccupied.

"I have certainly reported the matter to the police. I do hope that there will be an early opening of the facility," said Member of Parliament for West Central St Catherine, Dr Christopher Tufton. "When you have people pilfering from the police, it is a clear indication of a need to fast-track the opening by dealing with the draining concerns," he said. Tufton told THE STAR that, to his knowledge, three windows were stolen from the building. He also said that there is ongoing dialogue with the Ministry of National Security for action to be taken.

Several residents from Green Acres and surrounding communities have expressed concerns about their safety and believe that while the authorities are trying to get proper fencing, thieves are having a field day.

"This is a joke. They have stolen microwave and other items from the police post and the station built by taxpayers' money has become the victim of criminals. What next?" said Delbert Ingram, a resident.

The police station, which was a $73 million project, was scheduled to open in 2020, but that has been delayed due to drainage woes of the low-lying community. Last October, it was estimated that approximately $70 million in additional funding was required to address the drainage concerns. Residents said the building has become a proverbial 'white elephant', as despite the investment, it is still not ready.