Downward Trend in Crime and Violence Continues – JCF

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting a continued downward trend in crime and violence, with all categories of major offences showing a reduction during the second quarter of 2024.

“Overall, there has been an almost 12 per cent decrease in major crimes since the start of 2024. Notably, murders have decreased by 14.5 per cent as of July 15, 2024,” said Police Commissioner, Dr. Kevin Blake, during the JCF’s quarterly press conference on Tuesday (July 16).

Dr. Blake further noted that shootings are down almost two per cent; robberies, down 15 per cent; rapes, down 32 per cent; and break-ins, down six per cent.

Regarding illegal firearm seizures, the Commissioner indicated that the JCF is “reaping more success”.

“As at June 30, 2024, we recorded a 14 per cent increase in gun seizures over the same period last year, taking 422 illegal firearms off the streets and our communities,” Dr. Blake said, noting that “these are mainly pistols.”

In sounding a clarion call for Jamaicans to report criminal elements, he said: “There are far more lawful and law-abiding people in Jamaica than the lawless and criminal among us.”

“The JCF urges anyone with information on the whereabouts of criminals to come forward as part of a collective effort to ensure justice and restore peace,” Dr. Blake stated.

He also warns the perpetrators of crime that the JCF will be unrelenting in bringing them to justice.

“We will disrupt your criminal activities and isolate you. We will come for you, [and] when we do, we encourage you to lay down arms and surrender willingly. If you meet us with aggression, we will respond with superior force, and we will win because we are smarter, we are better trained and better resourced,” Dr. Blake declared.