KINGSTON, Jamaica — Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake has sought to reassure members of the public that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will not be deterred in its fight to protect Jamaican citizens from ruthless criminals who terrorise communities and threaten livelihoods.

Dr Blake, while providing an update on the successes the JCF have been reaping in the fight against crime, on Friday said, “We stand each day between you, the people we swore to protect, and the ruthless criminals who murder our sons and daughters, terrorise our communities, killing even women and children, and threaten our very way of life.”

“These criminals act with shocking boldness in recording and sharing their crimes on social media, displaying a chilling disregard for life and law. So, should it surprise anyone that these same criminals who murder, at will, turn their weapons on members of the security forces? Let me reassure you, we are undeterred. We will not retreat. We will not yield. The safety and security of the Jamaican people remain our mission, our duty and our commitment,” he continued.

The police have come under increased scrutiny in recent times for an uptick in the number of fatal police shootings and the lack of body-worn cameras being utilised by the police in planned operations.

“We are aware that even as we make gains, there are those who seek to sow seeds of discord and mistrust, who try to paint our officers as anything but the professionals they are. Let me be clear. We are a disciplined, modern law enforcement agency with a constitutional mandate to serve and protect all Jamaicans without fear, favour or ill will,” Blake said.

Up to Saturday, April 26, the country recorded a total of 225 murders, which is a 36.6 per cent decline when compared to the 355 murders recorded in the same period last year. There has also been a decline in rape, shooting and break-ins.

“April 2025 has marked another historic milestone. For the second time this year, we have recorded the lowest number of murders in over two decades. Forty-four lives were lost in April, compared to 82 in the same month last year. This follows our previous record in February when we reported 48 murders, the lowest figure in over 25 years. These are not just statistics. Each number represents a life saved, community stabilised and a signal that the tide is turning. As of April 30th, overall major crimes have declined by 18 per cent,” Blake said.

“Murders are down by 37 per cent, shootings have dropped by 30 per cent, rapes have decreased by an encouraging 47 per cent, and robberies are down by four per cent. This progress is not accidental. It is a result of careful planning, tireless execution and a commitment to excellence by the men and women of the JCF and the Jamaica Defence Force. I extend my deepest thanks to you for your professionalism and sacrifice. I also express appreciation to our strategic partners across the security and intelligence landscape,” Blake added.