Corporal Encil Bent of the Linstead police directing traffic on the busy Linstead streets on Thursday. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

Rasbert Turner, Gleaner Writer

Encil Bent is a 21-year veteran of the Jamaica Constabulary Force who goes about his normal duties just like any other policeman. There is, however, one major difference between himself and other members of the force: Mr. Bent, because of his Christian convictions, does not carry a firearm.

The corporal who is now attached to the St. Catherine North Traffic Department said that while he is not against his colleagues bearing arms, he finds it absolutely fulfilling to serve his country without the use of a gun.

"I find that I am serviceable to the nation without the use of a firearm and I am no less effective," he said.

The senior policeman who has worked in the tough St. Andrew Central area said that his not having a gun might evoke mixed reactions, especially from motorists who might see him as being powerless. As a devoted Christian for more than a decade, he finds comfort in the armour of the Saviour around him.

Fair, firm

A member of the Seventh-day Church of God, Spanish Town, Mr. Bent said that he is fair, firm and also fearless in his day-to-day interactions as there is a divine guidance that keeps him on track.

"I would encourage any of my colleagues to seek God, as he is the ultimate power and the glory," he said.

His words of inspiration were echoed by Sergeant Cebert Nelson and Constable Raymond Roberts, both of the Traffic Department, who described Bent as being very inspirational and professional in his day-to-day working habits.

Although called Christian police by many, Bent who was seen directing traffic on a busy Linstead street, said he does not take his job for granted and explained that he knows that God can really change lives in a positive way.

The corporal who has been married for eight years and has a son, said his decision to serve the Lord and not to rely on the gun, came in 1994 while he lived in a garrison community. He said that even though persons there knew he was a policeman, his yard was constantly used as a thoroughfare for criminals on the run after committing crimes. He found it necessary to seek divine intervention and since then, he has been resting totally on the trust of his Maker, whom he says guards him and protects him.