JCF reports 11% decline in murders as country records nearly 60 homicides in 14 days

With 28 more murders recorded in Jamaica over the last week, between March 16 and 23, homicide detectives had close to 60 deaths to probe in 14 days. This, after 31 murders were reported for the week of March 9-16.

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force's (JCF) latest serious crimes statistics published today, the murder toll as at March 23 stood at 251. 

This represents an 11 per cent drop in murders year on year, or 30 less homicides over the corresponding period last year, when 281 killings took place. 

St James is still the most murderous police division of all 19 divisions, with 35 homicides, though this represents an eight per cent decline when compared to the corresponding period last year.

Westmoreland with 24; St Catherine South, 22, St Andrew South, 21; and St Andrew Central with 19 round out the top five divisions with the most homicides.

Incidents involving shootings and injured persons have increased by seven and three, respectively.

Rape, robberies and break-ins are down 46, one and 13 per cent, respectively.

New police commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, who took office last week, launched a new division this morning.

This followed a raft of reassignments of several senior officers, to include area and divisional commanders, at the end of last week.

The JCF begun this week with the rollout of its Beat Officer Patrol Division (BOPD) within the Kingston and St Andrew Metropolitan Region.

The division, which aims to bolster public safety and strengthen community policing efforts, falls under the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB), led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary McKenzie.

According to the police, BOPD aims to provide a visible and proactive police presence in key areas across the island.

The JCF's communication arm, Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), said the establishment of the BOPD reflects the force's commitment to proactive policing and community engagement.

With the support of dedicated members and the cooperation of the public, the JCF said it aims to create safer and more secure neighbourhoods for all Jamaicans.

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