Up to July 24, 2021, the murder statistics from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) indicate that there’s been a 6.9% increase in murders compared to the same period in 2020, which mean 52 more Jamaicans have been murdered so far this year.
The National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang says continued inter-gang violence in several communities can be linked to the increase in murders. He points to areas like Central Kingston that have been gripped by deadly conflict in the past months.
According to the Minister, current crime-fighting strategies are effective, but there needs to be greater application. He says joint police-military teams have been able to restore control amid flare-ups. Dr. Chang, however, notes that unless the violence producers are removed from the streets the bloodletting and increase in murders will continue.
In the meantime, the Security Minister says the COVID-19 crisis has hampered the force’s ability to reach its target of 1000 recruits this year.
More in this CVM Live story from Christeen Forbes:
