Stakeholders in Montego Bay, St James are hailing the decline in crime within the parish because the begin of the yr.
February marked a historic low in violent crimes, with just one homicide being recorded.
Knowledge from the Jamaica Constabulary Drive (JCF) confirmed that between January 1 and February 18, six murders had been reported in St James, in comparison with 22 over the identical interval final yr, representing a decline of 72.7 per cent.
There have been 11 instances of shootings, in comparison with 21, a 47.6 per cent discount; whereas rape, which numbered 9 in 2024, dropped to 4, a 55.6 per cent lower.
Commanding officer for the St James police, Superintendent Eron Samuels, mentioned the downturn in crime in Montego Bay displays the dedication and onerous work of the Jamaica Constabulary Drive (JCF), in partnership with civil society.
“Collectively, we now have made important strides in direction of making a safer setting for each locals and vacationers alike. As we transfer ahead, I urge continued collaboration, vigilance and group engagement in our shared mission to make Montego Bay a spot the place folks will wish to reside and go to.
He mentioned there is no such thing as a room for complacency.
“As we attempt to make Montego Bay a mannequin metropolis for security and safety, it’s essential that we preserve the momentum we now have constructed. We’re dedicated to making sure that criminals really feel that there is no such thing as a secure haven inside our borders. Our officers are devoted to sustaining a excessive stage of vigilance and responding swiftly to any threats that will come up,” he mentioned.
Superintendent Eron Samuels
“We perceive that complacency can undermine our hard-earned beneficial properties. Subsequently, we won’t permit our achievements to be sacrificed on the altar of complacency. As an alternative, we’ll proceed to adapt and refine our methods, utilising information and suggestions from our group to remain forward of rising challenges,” he pledged.
Proprietor and operator of Smokeez by the Sea Restaurant in Rose Corridor, Lowell Spence, mentioned there’s a common feeling of security and safety within the metropolis.
“We’ve labored onerous to create a secure setting… and the numbers replicate that we’re heading in the right direction,” he mentioned.
President of the Jamaica Resort and Vacationer Affiliation (JHTA) Montego Bay Space Chapter, Kerry-Ann Quallo Casserly, mentioned the latest statistics “should not simply numbers, however characterize lives, households and communities feeling safe.
“There are three official cities on the island (Kingston, Montego Bay and nominally, Portmore). It can’t be misplaced on anybody that we now have now turn into the most secure… most secure for each our vacationers and locals… and one thing we are able to all be pleased with,” she acknowledged.
Deputy Chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, John Byles, credited the police for guaranteeing a secure setting.
“The presence of regulation enforcement has been pivotal on this progress. The police are doing an impressive job,” he mentioned, noting the seen improve in police patrols all through the town.
For his half, transport operator Paul Roberts mentioned communities are feeling a lot safer.
“The worry that when gripped our neighbourhoods is dissipating. Because the crime charges proceed to say no, we should stay vigilant and proactive in our method to security,” he acknowledged.
Visitor home proprietor, Shirley James, additionally emphasised the significance of unity in sustaining the town’s security.
“We can’t afford to be complacent; an all-in method is important. Everybody, from enterprise house owners to group members, must play their half in guaranteeing Montego Bay stays a secure haven,” she mentioned.
“We deserve recognition for the strides we’ve made. Our communities are secure, and guests are welcomed with open arms,” she added.
Source link
