Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of strategic operations, Clifford Blake, took over the helm of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) yesterday as acting commissioner of police, following the departure of Commissioner George Quallo.
Quallo, it is understood, was in office from early yesterday morning leading to speculation that he was on the job, but a senior police officer told the JamaicaObserver that the former top cop had not received a formal letter from the Police Service Commission (PSC) for him to proceed on pre-retirement leave and ultimately to his retirement in August of this year. The PSC, chaired by Professor Gordon Shirley, is the constitutional body charged with the responsibility of making appointments above the rank of sergeant in the JCF.
“Yes, Mr Quallo came, not to continue his work as commissioner of police, but to sort out his personal situation with the PSC and to say his goodbyes to members of staff,” the senior cop said.
“At the time when Mr Quallo was at office this morning he still did not have in his hands any written communication from the PSC regarding the terms and conditions of his departure, but that situation was sorted out.
“At no time was Mr Quallo there at the Office of the Commissioner of Police to perform duties,” the officer said while stressing that it was only fair that Quallo should be treated with respect and dignity before his departure.
It is understood Quallo met with members of the PSC later in the day and all attendant issues were sorted out thereby allowing him to proceed on his leave.
Quallo, a 40-year veteran of the police force, took over the job of commissioner of police on April 28, 2017, following the retirement of Dr Carl Williams. Prior to him being named commissioner, Quallo steadily rose through the ranks of the constabulary serving in various capacities.
DCP Blake will act as the country’s chief constable until a new commissioner of police is appointed by the PSC.
