The head of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) said Wednesday the PCA has the power to launch a commission of enquiry into the killings of three people by police in Moruga.
However, Gillian Lucky said the PCA has not reached that point in in its probe of the killings of Kerron Eccles, Abigail Johnson and Alana Duncan. The three young people were killed by police on July 22.
Lucky made the point in response to a letter from Keith Scotland, an attorney representing relatives of the victims. He called on Lucky to exercise its powers under Part III of the PCA Act.
“The clear intention of the PCA Act is to provide an independent mechanism for the investigation of complaints against police officers and also to monitor and audit any internal police investigation,” Scotland wrote.
He added that an immediate investigation under Section 21 (a) of the PCA Act would be “most appropriate” in the circumstances and in keeping with the PCA’s statutory mandate.
He also stated that the PCA ought not to wait on the results of the internal police investigation before commencing its own probe.
Lucky told reporters she is “fully aware" of the PCA's role and powers. However she added, “I cannot say at this stage if an inquiry will begin. It is critical to ensure at this time that evidence is gathered and if it becomes necessary we will make a determination to use any other powers."
She noted that the PCA became involved in this matter without any formal complaint being made.
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