The Month of April Records the Lowest Number of Murders in a Month in 25 Years
The Government of Jamaica is pleased to note that April 2025 was recorded as having the lowest number of murders in a month in a 25-year period, with 44 murders.
This achievement follows February’s record-setting low of 48 homicides, the fewest in a single month since 2000. Overall, the first quarter of 2025 has seen a 35.9% reduction in murders compared to the same period in 2024.
Commissioner of Police Dr. Kevin Blake also highlighted in his weekly Force Orders that this period marks the sixth consecutive quarter of declining murder rates, with the first quarter of 2025 experiencing the most significant drop in major crimes since 2001.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness attributes this progress to the work and commitment of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) as well as sustained investments in national security with unprecedented levels of funding to the Force.
Speaking on Tuesday (April 29) in his Sectoral Debate presentation in Parliament, Minister of National Security, Dr. Horace Chang, detailed the scope of enforcement efforts since the start of 2025. Minister Chang revealed that the security forces have disrupted 63 gangs, arrested 159 known members, and charged 34 individuals with serious offences including murder, illegal possession of firearms, and lottery scamming.
The Minister also pointed out that the number of active gangs has been reduced to 85 across the island’s 19 police divisions, which is a substantial drop from the 120 active gangs that existed in 2024.
Additionally, the seizure of illegal firearms remains a top priority, with over 356 weapons confiscated just this year. This compares to 294 for the same period last year, indicating a 21% increase.
Minister Chang expressed confidence that, if current trends continue, Jamaica could end 2025 with fewer than 800 murders, which is an achievement not seen in decades.
Prime Minister Holness said the Government remains committed to sustaining this positive trajectory through continued investment in law enforcement, community engagement, and legislative reforms. As Jamaica moves forward, the Prime Minister said the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.