The Jamaica Council of Churches says building the technological capacity of the police force is a major factor in fighting crime.

The church grouping has committed to acquiring for the force closed circuit television cameras, as well as organizing its membership to assist the police with the use of this technology, in light of the escalating crime rate.

It says such an investment cannot be the sole responsibility of the government.

General Secretary of the Jamaica Council of Churches, Reverend Gary Harriott says the JCC wants businesses, communities and church members to invest in installing CCTV systems to help identify and nab criminals.

The church grouping also wants the government to explore the possibility of using funds confiscated from criminal enterprise or unclaimed funds from banks to fund the acquisition of additional CCTV systems.

Additionally, the Jamaica Council of Churches is calling on the government to make special provisions in the upcoming budget to support effective interventions by non-governmental organizations.