Police still maintain watchful eyes

The police have lifted a ban on parties and fêtes that are usually held after the annual Boys and Girls' Athletics Championships.

However, Senior Superintendent Derrick Knight says this will be constantly reviewed in the days leading up to the championships, which is scheduled for the National Stadium next week.

"We are lifting it for the time being. Next week, we will review it again and then we will make the call," Knight said during a press conference by the Area Four police in downtown Kingston yesterday.

The decision by the police to ban after Champs parties and fêtes was in response to a surge in violent clashes between students from rival schools.

In 2008, popular parties like Puma Finish Line and Up To The Line were denied permit, with the latter eventually getting permission. But in 2009, no after Champs event was given the go-ahead. The following year, Knight said that the decision to bar all parties was taken by the Police High Command and would be enforced to the fullest degree.

Fast forward a few years later, Knight says the police have seen a marked reduction in pre-Champs violence.

"The fact that the conflict, the violence and the disputes have been reduced, we are now looking to see how best we can work with some of the promoters," he told reporters yesterday.

Knight added: "All we are saying to them is make your applications (for permits) early. Come in and sit down so we can look at policing in general around these events."

Patrons enjoying the music at Puma Finish Line - held on March 31, 2007, at Market Place in St Andrew.

Patrons enjoying the vibe at an after Champs party.