Officials in Jamaica are noting a significant drop in murder rates, yet rights activists caution that this shouldn’t come at the expense of their approach to handling crime, particularly with an unexpected rise in fatal police shootings.
Although Jamaica has long grappled with a troubling rate of gang-related violence, recent statistics show that the murder rate per capita has fallen this year, especially notable from January to April.
“April 2025 marked another historic milestone. It’s the second time this year we’ve seen the lowest number of murders in over two decades,” stated Police Commissioner Kevin Blake.
Blake emphasized that the improvements are the result of “careful planning, tireless execution, and a commitment to excellence.”
From January to April, major crimes overall reportedly dropped by 18%, with homicides specifically decreasing by 37% compared to the same timeframe in 2024.
He remarked, “These figures represent more than numbers; they indicate lives saved and a stabilizing community.”
However, the Jamaican Justice (JFJ) organization has raised alarms about a “significant and surprising increase” in police-related fatalities concurrently.
As per the Jamaica Police Complaints Bureau, 111 individuals lost their lives to security forces from January to April 2025, a staggering rise from 44 during the same period last year—an increase of 152%.
JFJ has called for heightened accountability regarding state violence, advocating for measures like body-worn cameras.
The group echoed concerns voiced by JFJ about the rise in fatal police shootings.
JFJ executive director Mickel Jackson noted that there have been numerous complaints from the public, suggesting that citizen accounts often clash with official police narratives, especially when amateur videos contradict police statements.
“These conflicting accounts highlight the need for transparent oversight through body-worn cameras,” she commented.
Carla Garotta, another human rights advocate, stressed the vital role of building trust between the police and communities, particularly in fragile areas.
Katrina Chin shared the tragic story of her cousin Andrew Richards, who was shot by police in January. She emphasized the necessity for transparency, especially as investigations continue into his death, amid claims of his innocence.
Reflecting on the day her cousin’s body was discovered, Chin expressed a clear understanding: “We recognize that crime is a serious issue in our country.”
She insisted that JFJ’s mission isn’t anti-police but aims for proper methods, noting, “We can’t let urgency to reduce crime compromise our integrity.”
She argued that politicians should also defend law enforcement actions that help combat the perception of police being “out of control.”
JFJ has called on supporters to wear black ahead of protests against the surge in killings, gaining backing from local businesses, like the pharmacy chain Fontana, participating in the “Blue” campaign.
Kevin O’Brien Chan, Fontana’s executive director, remarked that his team chose to wear blue, seeing it as a symbol of safety as crime rates decline. “Every day, police and soldiers risk everything,” he commented.
During the protests, Prime Minister Andrew Holness was pictured in a blue suit meeting police officials. Local media highlighted his public display of support amid the JFJ protests.
In addressing worries over the rise in police fatalities, Holness reportedly stated, “The increase in police activities against criminals and gangs understandably leads to more losses among those who resist. Yet, we need to respond decisively to the intense gang conflicts.”
Commissioner Blake defended his officers, stating, “We are disciplined, modern law enforcement agencies dedicated to serving and protecting all Jamaicans.”
Jackson reiterated that everyone has the right to self-defense, but added, “You can support the police while still advocating for accountability.” She argued that both the public and police would benefit from independent oversight.
“A demand for accountability shouldn’t be viewed as anti-police. I believe the prime minister should support law enforcement while also promoting greater transparency,” she concluded.
