Jamaica recorded notable success in its crime-fighting strategy in 2023. By the end of the year, there was a 7.8 per cent reduction in homicides and an aggregate 11 per cent decline in all categories of crime compared to 2022.
This can be attributed to the Government’s progress in modernising the anti-crime legislative framework, outfitting the security forces with additional resources and strengthening Jamaica’s borders, among other far-reaching strategies.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) acquired equipment valued $30 million to strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities. Additionally, some 26 police stations were renovated, while construction of the National Forensic Pathology Autopsy Suite is to be completed soon.
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Significant Investments Made to Tackle Crime
The Government placed significant focus on investing in infrastructure, technology and equipment, a clear demonstration of its unwavering commitment to tackling crime and violence.
The crime-fighting strategies yielded success, as Jamaica recorded a 7.8 per cent reduction in homicides and an aggregate 11 per cent decline in all crime categories for 2023, when compared to 2022.
Of the approximately 2,970 major crimes reported, 1,453 were cleared through arrests. More than 500 persons were arrested for murder, and in excess of 600 homicides investigated were solved.
The investments in additional resources for the security forces have contributed to the gains recorded so far and help to maintain law and order.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) trained approximately 829 new constables, while 54 new correctional officers and 392 Jamaica National Service Corps (JNSC) members were recruited.
The Government invested in major technology for its national security apparatus, with the upgrade and expansion of the JamaicaEye Network, the Traffic Ticket Management System, and the Microwave and Radio Networks for the JCF.
Digitisation of the Police Force has been onging with the implementation of the Electronic Station Records Management and Case Management Systems.
Infrastructural upgrades to national security facilities in 2023 included the renovation of 26 additional police stations and construction of the National Forensic Pathology Autopsy Suite, which is nearing completion.
The Government also made significant progress in modernising the anti-crime legislative framework, with the passage of the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operation and Special Community Development Measures) Amendment Act.
The soon-to-be-passed amendments to the Immigration Restriction (Commonwealth Citizens) Act, and Aliens Act, are expected to strengthen the national border management framework and support the wider territorial and sovereign protection reforms.
