Business Leaders Hailing 35% Reduction in Murders So Far This Year

The presidents of several chambers of commerce are hailing the continued reduction in murders across the country.

According to data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, JCF, as at February 28, murders are down 35 per cent.

Between January 1 and February 28, 117 murders have been recorded. This is 63 fewer than the 180 committed in the corresponding period of 2024.

Tauna Thomas reports.

In February 2025, a total of 47 murders were recorded.

This is the lowest on record since 2000, with only one murder in St James, one in St Elizabeth, one in Hanover and zero in Trelawny.

Speaking recently in Clarendon, national security minister, Dr. Horace Chang, noted that the JCF has been making headway in restoring law and order across the country.

Dr. Chang pointed to the continued decline in the murder rate as evidence of the government’s investment in the force.

President of the May Pen Chamber of Commerce, Winsome Witter, says the business community is seeing a more positive response from the police in Clarendon.

So far this year, Clarendon has recorded five murders, compared to 11 for the same period last year. In Westmoreland, the JCF has recorded eight murders, compared to 11 last year.

President of the Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce, Moses Chybar says while it’s early days, residents are cautiously optimistic.

In St. James, seven murders have been recorded so far this year. This, compared to 26 for the same period in last year. In February, only one homicide was recorded in the parish.

President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, Jason Russell, says the business community is feeling a sense of relief.