A number of female police personnel are disgruntled with the latest directives that have apparently been handed down by the Police High Command.

The directives which were circulated to the female personnel is said to insist they dress more modestly.

According to the orders sent out last week, the expected changes include, among others things, removal of braids, false fingernails, rings with the exception of wedding bands and earrings.

It is also stated that if the hair is processed, the length must not pass the collar.

"The force order that came out last week look like it want policewomen to look like grandmothers," a corporal complained to THE STAR yesterday.

She said, gone are the days when policewomen should look 'less hotter' than other females.

Similarly, a number of her colleagues also complained something needs to be done to prevent the new orders prohibiting them from 'blinging' out.

safety issue

There were even some persons who said this change may affect their safety. "I think this will risk lives, as we are now going to be easily identified. Many police officers have to take public transport and when an officer is out of uniform, she should not be easily identified. It is known that Jamaicans are anti-police and the safest method of survival is through disguise," another woman constable explained.

On the other hand, when THE STAR spoke to a senior female officer yesterday, she said the directive was given in an attempt to tone down some of the inappropriate attire of the women in recent years.

"It's long overdue. Nowadays you can hardly know police different from some overdressed higglers. It is a welcome return to ladylike dressing," the female officer said.