THE Peace Management Initiative (PMI) has been established under the leadership of Bishop Herro Blair to do what the name implies: investigate and defuse potential conflict in volatile or troubled communities.

Bishop Blair, who is also Political Ombudsman, described to our Editors Forum last month the modus operandi of the PMI. He made the point that the unit operates without police escort in these communities, which are wary of the constabulary.

We raise this matter in light of the flare-up of violence in Spanish Town and the talk of plots to disrupt election day proceedings in at least three Corporate Area constituencies.

It seems odd that the talk about plots derives from revelations by Senior Superintendent Reneto Adams, head of the Police Crime Management Unit, and further elaboration by the Opposition JLP spokesman on National Security Mr. Derrick Smith.

SSP Adams' revelation by way of a radio talk-show raises questions about police procedure in disseminating information about crime. As we understand it apart from the Constabulary Communication Network (CCN) senior officers especially at parish level are allowed to speak to the media.

In this instance, however, it seems to us that intelligence reports of national importance, should be handled by the Police Commissioner himself especially since the matter is politically sensitive and could affect the impending elections.

Yet the outspoken Mr. Adams has once again chosen to divulge on the airwaves what should be confidential matters, apparently on his own authority. While the Commissioner has subsequently confirmed that reports of plots to disrupt the elections are being investigated, he should explain the propriety or otherwise of Mr Adams' disclosure.

In the wake of this disclosure Mr Smith has gone on public platform with what he says is other intelligence of the plot aimed at three JLP candidates, including his own constituency.

The combative tone of the platform announcement of course adds to the tension of the pre-election mood. There is almost a throwback to the bad old days of overt political conflict marked by charge and countercharge.

Our primary concern, however, is whether the role of the PMI is compromised by what we see as the unprofessional blabbing of a senior police officer.

It seems to us that a criminal plot should be pursued professionally without fanfare. PMI effectiveness thus far has been achieved without bombast. But with Mr. Adams on the warpath, plots may escape the subtlety of peaceful containment.

THE OPINIONS ON THIS PAGE, EXCEPT FOR THE ABOVE, DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE GLEANER.