Jamaica Sees Decline in Murders for 2024: Portland Records Lowest While St. James Leads

Jamaica has recorded a significant decline in its murder rate for 2024, with the country’s homicide figures showing a sizeable reduction compared to the same period last year.

According to the latest statistics released by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), as of December 14, the national murder toll stands at 1,114. This marks a decrease of over 200 when compared to 2023, signalling progress in crime reduction efforts across the island.

Notably, Portland remains the safest division with just 13 murders recorded, the lowest in the country. On the other hand, St. James leads the island’s police divisions with the highest number of murders, recording 123 homicides so far.

St. Andrew South follows closely with 116 murders, while Westmoreland (97), St. Catherine North (92), and St. Catherine South (81) round out the top five divisions with the highest murder rates.

The Jamaica reported that with just 16 days left in 2024, 15 of the island’s 19 police divisions have recorded declines in murders. Other categories of crime, including shootings, injured persons, rapes, robberies, and break-ins, have also seen year-on-year reductions.

While challenges persist in some areas, the continued downward trend in murders and other crimes reflects the impact of ongoing policing strategies and community-based interventions.