44 / 494
43
was joint as between the two forces, the respective plans should have
been seen and discussed certainly at the level of the respective Heads.
3.31.
On the evidence adduced, we accept that senior officers of
both forces were involved in the planning of what was agreed to be a
joint operation. Deputy Commissioner Hinds, Lt. Col. Sewell and others
testified to their involvement in planning the joint operation.
Public Disquiet about The Hiatus
3.32.
The long hiatus between the request for Coke’s extradition and any
attempt to execute the warrant caused great public concern and disquiet. It is
said that “nature abhors a vacuum”. And, while the GoJ was exploring the
diplomatic, legal and Constitutional ramifications of the request, tension took
over the country – particularly in Kingston generally.
3.33.
In the month of May 2010, “there was an atmosphere of fear in the
country, especially the Corporate Area”, according to DCP Hinds. CDS Saunders
said that “these were anxious times for the Commissioner of Police and civil
society”.
18 MAY 2010 – SIGNING THE AUTHORITY TO PROCEED
3.34.
The Attorney-General informed the Prime Minister before 17 May
2010 that she intended to sign an order giving authority to proceed (ATP) with
the request of the USG. The Prime Minister decided to make a broadcast to the
nation. Mr. Golding, in answer to Lord Gifford, said –
“Cabinet was advised by the Attorney-General that she would
sign the Authority to Proceed. The effect of the Authority
was that a warrant would issue for Coke and be executed. I
did not consult with the Heads of the security forces about
the execution of the warrant. On that very day, I broadcast
to the nation and told them that the Minister would sign the
Authority to Proceed the next day. Coke would have been