Jamaica is poised to achieve its lowest annual homicide rate in over three decades, marking a watershed moment in the nation’s long-standing battle against violent crime. With just over two weeks remaining in the year, official data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) indicates approximately 600 murders—putting the island on track to record fewer than 700 homicides for the first time since 1994.
Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, attributes this dramatic 43% reduction in murders to the Holness administration’s deliberate policy architecture and strengthened collaboration with security agencies. While acknowledging that any murder remains unacceptable, Fitz-Henley emphasized the significance of this decline within Jamaica’s historical context of violent crime.
The government’s multifaceted strategy, implemented since 2016, includes ‘Plan Secure Jamaica’—a comprehensive roadmap presented to parliament in 2017/2018. Key components involve substantial enhancements to security forces’ intelligence capabilities, unprecedented investments in border protection technology at Jamaica Customs to intercept illegal firearms, and targeted operations to dismantle criminal networks.
Legislative reforms have played a crucial role, including the establishment of Zones of Special Operation, amendments to anti-gang legislation, and the DNA Evidence Act. These measures have been complemented by sustained support for security personnel through increased staffing and improved working conditions.
Despite these achievements, Fitz-Henley confirmed the administration remains focused on sustained progress rather than celebration. Prime Minister Andrew Holness and National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang continue to develop additional policies aimed at further securing Jamaican society.