Jamaica on Track to Record Lowest Murder Rate in Nearly 40 Years — PM Praises Security Forces for Their Commitment

Jamaica is on the brink of recording its lowest murder figure in nearly four decades, with Prime Minister Andrew Holness revealing that the island is on track to finish 2025 with fewer than 700 homicides. The milestone, he said, reflects years of targeted investment, improved policing, and an unwavering national push to reduce violent crime. Holness delivered the update during Friday’s official opening of the newly reconstructed Little London Police Station in Westmoreland.

According to the Prime Minister, more than $90 billion has been channelled into strengthening the nation’s security forces over the last nine years. The results, he argued, speak for themselves. “The murder rate is now down 42% this year, 21% last year, and 7% the year before,” he said, describing the downward trend as a decisive break from Jamaica’s long-standing battle with gun violence. The achievement marks the most significant reduction in murders since the 1980s.

Holness praised members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) for their commitment—particularly in the challenging days following Hurricane Melissa. He recounted instances where officers braved extreme weather to foil robberies, maintain order and support vulnerable residents. “They could have decided to stay in the station and lock it. But our new JCF decided to go out, to be present, to be felt, to serve and protect,” he said.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the pivotal community role played by police stations during the hurricane. As communications fell and access routes were cut off, stations doubled as emergency hubs where residents sought safety, power for their devices, and distribution of essential supplies. Holness said this illustrated why investment in law enforcement is not only about crime, but also national resilience.

He stressed that the progress was not accidental, but the result of deliberate policy choices and strong public backing. “It is indisputable that you have a far lower murder rate today than you had in the last 30 years,” he said, urging Jamaicans to acknowledge the gains and continue supporting the nation’s security architecture. With sustained investment and community cooperation, Holness insisted the country is closer than ever to becoming a significantly safer place for all.