Major Crimes Down in St. Andrew North Police Division

Major crimes have declined significantly in the St. Andrew North Police Division, with murders down 70 per cent; shootings have declined by 70 per cent; robberies have fallen by 60 per cent, and break-ins by 50 per cent as at October 11.

The figures were provided by Member of Parliament for St. Andrew North Central, Hon. Delano Seiveright, during the State of the Constituency Debate in the House of Representatives, on Tuesday (October 13).

He commended the Government, security stakeholders and the police for their work, while emphasising the importance of accountability, due process and respect for human life.

Mr. Seiveright also highlighted significant private-sector investments in St. Andrew North Central, which he said are creating employment opportunities and supporting economic growth.

Among the developments are Chemtech on Constant Spring Road; Tile City and Home Centre, representing a $290-million investment; the Lee’s Group’s 76 Red Hills Road Business Centre, and Super Valu Towne Centre.

He added that a new KFC outlet is under construction along Constant Spring Road.

Mr. Seiveright said plans are advancing to modernise the Manor Park bus lay-by and commercial vending zone, with the project expected to transform the space by December this year.

He also highlighted Social Yard at the Constant Spring football field, spearheaded by entrepreneur Minka-Lim Todd, which is expected to bring restaurants and food outlets together in a shared dining space. The football field will remain intact, preserving its sporting and community functions.

Turning to infrastructure, the MP reported progress on Olivier Road and Long Lane, improvements to Orange Grove Road, and ongoing work on the Sandy Gully breakaway, which threatens homes and livelihoods.

He also cited water infrastructure improvements and expressed optimism that the Rio Cobre water treatment plant, expected to deliver an additional 15 million gallons of water daily to the Kingston Metropolitan Area, would help address supply challenges.

Mr. Seiveright outlined further initiatives to improve living conditions, including zinc-fence removal in Cassava Piece and Park Lane and the regularisation project at 85 and 85½ Red Hills Road.

He said the interventions are intended to provide residents with secure tenure, formal services and lasting improvements.

More than 1,600 children and teenagers also benefited from back-to-school activities across the constituency, while youth organisations are being strengthened and a job bank is being developed.

Mr. Seiveright said other priorities include addressing illegal dumping, abandoned vehicles, drainage problems and public order concerns.

He maintained that the progress made during his first year in office represents the beginning of a broader development agenda, emphasising that his focus is on delivering practical solutions for residents.

“I did not enter Parliament to become a professional commentator on Jamaica’s problems. I came here to solve them,” he told the House.