The Jamaican Government has found itself in hock to a number of car dealers contracted to import vehicles for the police, but whose tab remains unpaid since June on a combined US$4.38 million (J$390m) in contracts issued to three dealers.

"Yes, we have 90 units for them," said Kent LaCroix, special projects manager at Stewart's Auto Sales on Thursday.

The police cars were contracted by the Ministry of National Security at US$1.79 million last year.

"We are awaiting settlement as it relates to the contract, and this is yet to be finalised."

According to LaCroix, who is also the chairman of the Automobile Dealers Association (ADA), an undisclosed amount was deposited.

But the contract agreement calls for full payment prior to delivery.

The purchases were contracted by the Ministry of National Security.

Markings on the units

Stewarts' had allowed the Jamaica Constabulary Force to begin putting on their markings on the units, which are being held at the company's bonded warehouse on Arthur Wint Drive in St Andrew, but have held on to the vehicles.

"None are in the hands of the police yet, but we have still allowed them the facility of marking them," LaCroix said.

Kingston Industrial Garage Limited (KIG) also has a US$1.53-million contract to import vehicles on behalf of the crime fighters; and currently has 50 pickups in bond awaiting Government to settle the bill to finalise delivery.

"All I can say right now is that it has been a process," said an evasive Richard Reid, sales manager at KIG.

"My last update is that it is being worked on, so we expect to be paid any time now."

Orders were also placed through Toyota Jamaica but that dealership has received payment for a delivery that was made in March this year, the Financial Gleaner has learned. Toyota was awarded two contracts - US$210,649 for eight 15-seater buses; and US$846,478 for 24 sport utility vehicles.

The national security ministry up to press time had not responded to requests for comment.

mark.titus@gleanerjm.com