National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang
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National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang is optimistic that the country is on track to record a further decline in murders this year if the current trend continues.
According to the latest Serious Crime Report from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, up to February 22, the country had recorded 104 murders, compared with 143 in 2024. This represents a 27 per cent decline.
Dr Chang, speaking in Lacovia, St Elizabeth on Wednesday, said significant improvements in the intelligence gathering capabilities of the police and the strategic deployment of personnel across the country have proven to be effective in disrupting criminal gangs.
He added that other tools being utilised by the JCF to maintain public order are bearing fruit.
Dr Chang also highlighted the success of crime fighting in the Area 3 division, which comprises Manchester, St Elizabeth and Clarendon, saying this is indicative of the investment of the government in the police force.
Manchester and St Elizabeth had each recorded one murder up to February 22, while there were five in Clarendon.
Police fatal shootings
The reduction in the murder rate has coincided with an increase in police fatal shootings, for which the Jamaica Constabulary has been facing some backlash.
More than 50 people have been killed in alleged confrontations with the security forces since January.
Dr Chang, continuing his robust defence of the Use of Force Policy, said the police are not being trained to kill, but when confronted by armed thugs, they have to protect themselves.
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