Security Force Transformation Paying Off with 43.3% Reduction in Murders
The sustained and strategic investment in national security by the Holness administration has resulted in a historic transformation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), which is now reaping measurable success, including a national 43.3% reduction in murders.
Speaking recently, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Horace Chang outlined that the Government’s multi-billion-dollar investment in security has significantly enhanced the capacity and professionalism of the security forces, leading to major reductions in violent crime.
“As of [May 29], the murder rate is 43.3 percent below what it was last year. That means we have a reduction of some 210 murders compared to this period last year,” Dr. Chang stated. “This is the lowest rate of homicide on the island since 1991.”
Dr. Chang further explained that major crimes are down by 19.3%, and Jamaica’s crime victimization level remains one of the lowest in the region, at under 20 percent, indicating a strong suppression of random criminal activity.
The country also recorded only 188 murders in the first quarter of 2025, the lowest quarterly figure since the JCF began keeping disaggregated data in 2001.
Dr. Chang noted that the current second quarter is on track to surpass that record, with 87 murders recorded so far.
“The month of May, which has traditionally been one of the most violent months, last year registering 134 murders, is now at just 42,” he stated.
Minister Chang attributed these significant gains to strategic investments exceeding J$50 billion made under the Holness-led administration, even during economically challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We made the investment, and we are getting the results. In any democracy, especially given our social conditions, those funds could have gone to popular programmes, but we prioritized saving Jamaican lives.”
The National Security Minister highlighted the government’s deliberate and phased implementation of Plan Secure Jamaica, which focused on strengthening law enforcement capacity, professionalizing operations, and modernizing infrastructure.
Key Areas of Transformation in the JCF
The National Security Minister outlined several concrete examples of how transformation is being realized across the security forces:
Recruitment and Training: The JCF has expanded from under 11,000 to 14,000 officers, with 6,000 new recruits trained, even during the pandemic.
Technology Integration: Officers are now equipped with modern tools, replacing notebooks with computers and digital systems to log reports and manage data in real time.
Upgraded Police Stations: The government has completed 18 new police stations, with 2 more set to open shortly and 6 currently under construction. Another 6 are in advanced planning stages.
Professional Standards: A national audit of all 200 police facilities led to a systematic classification and reconstruction process, replacing substandard buildings with purpose-built, professional police stations.
Improved Visibility and Interaction
Dr. Chang also noted changes in how officers interact with the public, with enhanced uniforms, vehicles, communication systems, and welcoming police station environments.
He added that new facilities, like the Hopewell Police Station, reflect a new era of policing.
“You won’t see a big book anymore; you’ll see a young officer behind a computer screen, pleasant and professional.”
He continued: “We’re not yet complete, but we are at the tipping point. The transformation programme is alive, active, and well-resourced, and the results speak for themselves,” said Dr. Chang.
Minister Chang said the government continues to lead policy implementation to further improve national security.