Murders Plummets, Major Gun Busts Underscore Law Enforcement Success
Our security forces are reporting major gains in national security, highlighting the lowest murder rate in over three decades and historic successes in the fight against illegal firearms and organized crime.
Year-to-date figures reveal a 43.3% reduction in murders between January 1 and May 28, 2025—down to 275 murders compared to 485 during the same period in 2024. This represents the lowest first-quarter figures since the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) began disaggregated data collection in 2001.
In parallel, law enforcement agencies have made a historic seizure of illegal weapons and ammunition. In this seizure, authorities have confiscated:
- 74 rifles
- 159 handguns
- Over 40,000 rounds of ammunition
These operations are part of intensified efforts by the security forces to disrupt criminal networks and reduce the flow of illegal firearms into the country.
At a Special Post Cabinet Press Briefing, Prime Minister Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holiness extended heartfelt commendation to the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and the Jamaica Customs Agency for their pivotal role in stemming the flow of illegal contraband into the country. These agencies have worked tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to disrupt transnational criminal networks and intercept dangerous goods before they reach our communities.
Their efforts have not only strengthened border security but have sent a clear message to criminal networks: Jamaica is closing the gateways to guns, gangs, and illicit trade.
“This Government is serious about dismantling the foundations of violent crime,” said Dr. the Hon. Horace Chang, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security. “These firearm seizures including one of the largest gun busts in the nation’s history are evidence of our intelligence-led, multi-agency approach to crime fighting. We are removing the tools of violence from our streets and putting criminals on notice.”
The improved crime statistics have already begun to impact Jamaica’s global reputation. Today, the U.S. Government officially revised its travel advisory for Jamaica, moving the country from Tier 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) to Tier 2. This revision reflects the substantial improvements in public safety and is expected to enhance confidence among tourists and investors.
Prime Minister Holness praised the sustained efforts behind the recent security breakthroughs: “We are seeing the results of consistent policy, strategic execution, and coordinated law enforcement. Crime is not beyond control. The steps we have taken are working, and we are building a Jamaica where citizens can live without fear. By any objective measure, we are winning in the fight against crime. This is the foundation of true prosperity.”
“We will overcome organised criminal enterprises and dismantle the structures of organised violence in Jamaica. We are fundamentally changing the risk-reward matrix for crime making it clear that criminality will not pay. Wherever there is criminal intent, we will meet it with even greater national security investment, stronger laws, and smarter enforcement. This is a new era for Jamaica. In the new Jamaica safety, order, and opportunity prevail.” — Prime Minister Holness
With Jamaica on track to record a murder rate of approximately 24 per 100,000 population, the lowest since 1991, the Government is pledging to continue and deepen its investment in crime-fighting technologies, border control and economic empowerment.