“This is the Safest Negril Has Ever Been” – Westmoreland Division Commander

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Charlene Gray-Morris, says Negril is experiencing one of its safest periods in recent years with a steady decline in major crimes since January.

Addressing a press conference at the Wavz Beach Club in the resort town on Thursday (October 16), DSP Gray-Morris, who is Zone 4 Commander for the Westmoreland Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), reported a 40 per cent drop in murders.

“From January to October 16, 2024, Negril recorded 10 murders. For the same period this year, there were six, representing a decrease of four, and of that number, four have been cleared by arrests,” she informed.

In addition, she said that shootings declined from nine to five, while cases of rape decreased from three to one, with only robbery showing a slight increase, moving from four to five.

“This is the safest Negril has ever been, and we stand by that,” DSP Gray-Morris declared.

“We are achieving this success because of our relentless pursuit of criminals and wanted persons in this space, supported by increased operational activities, road policing, investigations, and most importantly, community engagements,” she said, noting that the measures have led to several arrests and convictions.

She informed that officers have benefited from enhanced tactical and operational training introduced by the JCF High Command.

“Our members are now trained at a higher level in operational support, and this has been reflected in our improved response to critical and dangerous incidents,” she noted.

DSP Gray-Morris said that the police are committed to protecting both residents and visitors who live, work, and vacation in the area, emphasising the link between safety and tourism.

“We continue to offer our service to this area, and we are committed to ensuring Negril remains safe for all,” she affirmed.

The press conference, under the theme ‘Reimagining Negril: Rootz, Culture, Irie Vibez’, was organised by the Entertainment Venues of Negril.

It brought together representatives from the Jamaica Tourist Board, Destination Assurance Council, Jamaica Fire Brigade, business operators, and other stakeholders to discuss plans to reposition Negril as one of Jamaica’s premier entertainment and tourism hubs.