59 murders in 14 days, say JCF statistics

With 28 more murders recorded in Jamaica between March 16 and 23, homicide detectives had close to 60 deaths to probe in 14 days. This after 31 murders took place the week prior - March 9 to 16.

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) latest serious crimes statistics published on Monday, the murder toll as at March 23 stood at 251. 

This represents an 11 per cent drop in murders year on year or 30 less homicides over the corresponding period last year when 281 killings took place. 

St James is still the most murderous police division of all 19 divisions, with 35 homicides. Though this represents an eight per cent decline when compared to the corresponding period last year.

Westmoreland 24, St Catherine South 22, St Andrew South 21, St Andrew Central 19 round out the top five divisions with the most homicides.

Shootings and injured person reports have increased by seven and three reports, respectively. Rape, robberies and break-ins are down 46, one and 13 per cent, respectively.

The new police commissioner Dr Kevin Blake who took office last week launched a new division this morning.

This followed a raft of reassignments of several senior officers to include area and divisional commanders at the end of last week.

- Andre Williams

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