A Clarendon-based non-governmental organisation, Jamaica Crime Fighting Foundation (JCFF), yesterday launched a drive to procure 300 sophisticated bicycles to aid in the crime-prevention efforts of the police.

JCFF Chairman Orrett Wignal said the 27-speed bicycles, costing $180,000 each, come equipped with sirens, flashing lights, shock absorbers in the front wheel, cushioned seats with shock absorbers, shock-absorbing gloves, helmets and saddle bags.

Describing them as 'urban tactical units', the JCFF chairman said the bicycles could prove to be effective crime-fighting and cost-saving equipment for the police. He said that although the bicycles cannot replace cars, they can access terrain that's not suitable for motor vehicles, and could save on fuel costs.

While the JCFF has only acquired a single demo unit, Wignal believes that the organisation's fund-raising efforts should bear fruit as early as September 2008, when he expects to hand over 300 bicycles to the (JCF).

The JCFF has planned a charity ball on a date to be announced in August, and will open bank accounts with commercial banks across the island so interested parties can make donations. The account numbers will be released to the public.

In September, the International Mountain Bike Association is also expected to conduct training sessions with police officers in Jamaica.

Wignal said that the idea to procure and donate the bicycles was born out of the desire of the organisation's members to make a positive contribution to their homeland.

"As patriotic citizens who see what is going on in this society, our organisation was based on trying to give back to our nation, especially in areas that other NGOs don't push forward," said the entrepreneur.

Wignal further defended the JCFF's decision to furnish the
JCF with the units stating, "We all know that the JCF is a cash-strapped entity."

According to Wignal, the JCFF was founded in January 2007 to aid in crime prevention and providing vital equipment for the police force.

"We are going to be more focussed on crime prevention than social intervention," he stated.

The practice of deploying bicycles in urban areas is popular in developed countries as it enables officers to navigate crowded streets and sidewalks with ease and is efficient in the apprehension of criminals who are on foot.
Wignal hopes that the procurement of the bicycles will improve the crime-fighting abilities of the JCF.