Jamaica Expands Global Security Cooperation to Close Off Havens for Criminals
Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness says Jamaica has significantly strengthened its international security partnerships to combat increasingly transnational criminal networks, stating that criminals will have “no place to hide.”
Addressing the Opening Ceremony of the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference today in Montego Bay, Prime Minister Holness said criminal organizations now operate across borders, requiring an equally coordinated response from law enforcement agencies.
“The criminals have representatives in the diaspora as well. As they become more transnational, the Government of Jamaica has increased its transnational cooperation with other countries and security forces to make sure that criminals have no place to hide,” Dr. Holness said.
The Prime Minister highlighted expanded cooperation with the United States and other international partners, which has contributed to major law enforcement operations, including recent actions targeting lottery scamming networks and the illegal trafficking of firearms into Jamaica.
Dr. Holness said the strengthened security strategy is delivering measurable results. Homicides have declined by 67 per cent over the past four years, including a further 22.5 per cent reduction as of May this year compared to the same period in 2025.
“These are not just numbers. These are lives saved. Communities where people are beginning to breathe a little easier. Businesses that can now open later. Young men who are alive today because violence did not take their lives,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the transformation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), increased investment in national security, and stronger intelligence-led policing have been critical to the country’s progress.
However, he underscored that improved security is not only about reducing crime but creating the conditions for economic growth, investment, and national development.
“The key to the JCF and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is to create a space where communities can flourish and where businesses can grow and flourish as well,” Dr. Holness stated.
Addressing members of the diaspora, the Prime Minister acknowledged that crime has historically been one of the greatest concerns among Jamaicans living abroad who wish to return home or invest in the country.
“As members of the diaspora, one of the first things you point out to me is, ‘Prime Minister, I would love to come back, but the crime.’ As you can see, we’re getting that under control,” he said.
Prime Minister Holness reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to driving crime rates down even further as Jamaica continues its efforts to build a safer, more secure, and more prosperous society.