Fax machines, programmers and scanners are also included in the package, which costs $8.5 million.  The equipment is provided by software distributors Business Management Limited (BML), one of six companies that made bids for the contract.

IMPROVING THEIR DATABASE

According to Dr. Phillips, the equipment will go a long way to improving the JCF's database and keeping tabs on the criminal network.

"We need to ensure that every single police station is computerised so as to enhance their capacity to undertake their administrative functions and ultimately to facilitate an Intranet within the Jamaica Constabulary Force," the Minister said.

Dr. Phillips said that the computerisation of police stations is a prelude to improving the law enforcement sector's database.  He disclosed that in May, government will offer tenders to establish an integrated management information system for the JCF and Department of Correctional Services.

Howard Chin, manager of BML's information technology manager, said his company's involvement goes beyond a commercial transaction.

"We all know the crime situation has been getting out of hand and we would like to see a dent made in it," he said.

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