Jamaica records 147 fewer murders

Jamaica's crime landscape in 2024 is a gripping tale of stark contrasts and evolving trends, as revealed by the latest figures from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The island has witnessed a dramatic drop in murders, yet persistent threats from shootings and robberies cast shadows over the progress made.

For the January 1 to August 31 period, murders have declined by 16 per cent compared to 2023. The total number of murders fell from 930 in 2023 to 783 in 2024, marking a reduction of 147 persons killed.

An analysis of the data reveals that the rate of murder has averaged just over three per day since the start of the year, which is an improvement when compared to previous period. In 2023, there were 1,393 murders an average of 3.8 per day. There were 1,498 murders in 2022 an average of 4.1 per day.

Meanwhile, several police divisions have contributed to the decrease in the murder figures. St James, historically one of the most violent areas, recorded a 32 per cent decrease in murders, with 44 fewer cases than in the previous year.

Clarendon also saw a substantial reduction, with a 31 per cent drop in murders. Similarly, Hanover experienced a 29 per cent decline.

Despite these improvements, some divisions have seen an increase in homicides, such as St Andrew Central and Trelawny, where murders rose by 48 per cent and 23 per cent, respectively.

Meanwhile, the number of shootings across Jamaica has seen a slight decline of three per cent overall, but certain areas have experienced worrying upticks. In Hanover, there has been an 86 per cent increase in shootings, from 22 in 2023 to 41 in 2024.

St James and St Catherine North also reported increases in shootings by 11 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively.

The statistics for sexual crimes, particularly rape, reveal a complex picture.

St Mary (79 per cent) and Portland (90 per cent) saw significant declines in rape cases. However, St James (54 per cent) and St Catherine South (11 per cent) reported increases.