Major Crime Falls in St. Catherine South: Murders Down 30%, Shootings Down 28%
The St. Catherine South Police Division has reported a substantial reduction in major crimes, with a notable 30% decrease in murders and a 28% reduction in shootings. Overall, the division has recorded a 16% decline in major crimes to date.
The report was presented to Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness by the Commanding Officer of the St. Catherine South Division, Senior Superintendent Leighton Gray today (June 25). The Portmore area and the wider St. Catherine South Division have experienced encouraging improvements in public safety, particularly in the reduction of homicides and shootings.
The division continues to benefit from strong community support, contributing to the overall decrease in criminal activities. Ongoing police initiatives and community engagement efforts have played a critical role in maintaining this downward trend.
Additionally, recent infrastructural developments, including the expansion of the Grange Lane area and improvements along Municipal Boulevard, have significantly eased morning traffic congestion. These changes have enhanced traffic flow, reducing travel time through major corridors such as Three Miles and Marcus Garvey Drive.
The residents have responded positively to these improvements, and further expansions are anticipated to bring additional traffic relief.
Despite the overall reduction in crime, the division remains focused on addressing the challenges posed by youth involvement in criminal activities. Law enforcement authorities have engaged directly with communities, including recent outreach in the Braeton and Reedsburg areas, to encourage positive choices and deter the possession and use of illegal firearms.
In the meantime, Prime Minister Holness commended the officers for the excellent work in crime fighting and law enforcement and their commitment to sustaining the progress made and continuing collaborative efforts to build safer communities.