KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting that there has been an overall 5.1 per cent reduction in serious and violent crimes as at Sunday, compared to the same period in 2017.

According to the JCF, as at April 7 this year, there has been 385 reported murders or a 4.1 per cent increase when compared to the same period last year while shootings are up marginally by 0.6 per cent.

The force however highlighted that there is a 17.6 per cent reduction in the number of reported cases of rape and a 33.1 per cent reduction in aggravated assault.

Of note, St James, where there is a state of public emergency and a zone of special operation, recorded 46 fewer murders or just over a 66 per cent reduction when compared with the same period in 2017. The Kingston Western Division also recorded a reduction, with 7.4 per cent fewer murders.

On the other hand, the St Catherine North Division, which is also under an SOE, has recorded 34 per cent more murders when compared with the same period.

The JCF further reported that the gun continues to be main tool used in murders, featuring in 81.4 per cent or 301 murders of the 385 recorded.

“There is a reward available for information leading to the seizure of guns and arrest of wanted persons,” said the JCF.

A total of $100 million is available for the recovery of guns, ammunition and explosives.

The rewards are: $150,000 for each rifle and sub-machine gun, $100,000 for a pistol and shotgun and $75,000 for each revolver. The reward for explosives and ammunition are negotiable.