PRIME Minister Andrew Holness has confirmed that no murders have occurred in the two latest areas named under the zones of special operations (ZOSOs) legislation.

The ZOSOs, an intensive response to serious crimes — especially murders, shooting and rapes — operate in seven selected areas affected by extensive gun violence linked to armed gangs and were effected in Parade Gardens, central Kingston, on January 9, and in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, exactly one week later.

Data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) indicated at the start of the year that Westmoreland had accounted for 128 murders last year, an increase of 60 per cent compared to the corresponding period of 2020.The Kingston Central Police Division, where a bloody conflict played out all year between the notorious Genasyde and Darkside gangs, had 79 murders — a 55 per cent increase when compared with 2020.

In late January this year, Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang told the House of Representatives that, up to then, “there had been no incidents of criminal violence within the geographical boundaries of the declared zones of special operations (ZOSOs) in Parade Gardens, Kingston and Savanna-la-Mar (south) in Westmoreland”.

On Thursday Holness, who sat in for Dr Chang, told the sitting of the House of Representatives that the partnership built up within the troubled communities has become historic and impactful, and would continue to be encouraged by the ministry.

He said that this has become a necessity in terms of safeguarding against a return to pre-ZOSO situations.

“The ongoing efforts of the community engagement and strengthening community-based organisations are actions that will sustain the critical achievements,” the prime minister said.

“While we recognise the significant gains that have been made, the pursuit of a diverse strategy and tolls islandwide, the reality still remains that the perceptible impact of serious crimes, such as the recent spate of drive-by shootings and incidents involving motorcycles, continue to be disconcerting,” he added.

He said, though the zones were meant to provide special emphasis in particular communities, the Government’s response has continued to also provide for those other areas affected by crime.

“For this reason it is especially important that this platform be used to reassure all Jamaicans that the Government remains committed to pursuing the measures and strategies that will establish the stability and long-lasting recourse that is needed,” he concluded.

The 60-day extension for all seven ZOSOs was approved by the House of Representatives in light of the fact that their terms end between April 25 and May 5.