Private sector lauds security force

The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) said it is encouraged by trends reflected in recent crime statistics published by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Commenting on the most recent statistics, PSOJ President Joseph M. Matalon commended the leadership as well as the hard-working men and women of the JCF for the significant strides made in the fight against crime, reflected in the significant decrease in major crimes year-to-date. He noted that the JCF has been successful in disrupting the activities of criminal elements and urged a continued focus on the use of the effective strategies employed by the police.

The PSOJ noted that the 44 per cent reduction in murders and 38 per cent decline in shootings in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, while significant, still reflect rates of serious crime, particularly murders, which are far too high for a country of Jamaica's size and population.

Said Matalon: "We are far from achieving the ultimate goal of returning law and order to our country. There is much work to be done by all of us in the best interests of Jamaica. Let us, therefore, support our security forces and sustain the current positive momentum."