Rasbert Turner, Portmore Star Writer

Residents of Portmore said they are pleased with the return of the bicycle police patrol to their communities.

The residents told THE PORTMORE STAR the men and women in short pants have certainly given them a good sense of security. ''We are better served with the patrol in our community as previously, the police would have to park and walk into the allies and pathways. By the time they reach, the crime is already committed,'' Monica Nevers said. Others expressed similar sentiments and hoped the riders would continue to journey against crime.

The St Catherine South police said they would continue to upkeep the cycles so as to keep the community safe.

According to operations officer Deputy Superintendent George McFarlane, the aim is to improve community-based policing.

not able to manoeuvre

''The unit is one designed to go into the communities and busy shopping centres and areas where the cars would not be able to manoeuvre. It is also designed to deal with street crimes such as ganja selling, extortion, and any other such offences,'' DSP McFarlane said.

Meanwhile, business operators have also expressed optimism while the wheels of the cycles turn. A number of complaints about criminals were received by THE PORTMORE STAR from residents who indicated that many of these criminal activities could have been avoided had the first batch of bicycles been repaired.

The Police High Command in the division promised that the new batch would be properly maintained.