Dear Editor,

Is Jamaica still a safe place to live, shop, and move about freely?

For many, the answer may vary depending on recent headlines or personal experiences. However, my visit to a popular plaza along Constant Spring Road in Kingston last Saturday offered an encouraging and refreshing answer. Yes, Jamaica remains a safe place when the right systems are in place.

Security, whether provided by the State or private firms, plays a crucial role in shaping the daily experiences of citizens. In a climate in which fear and uncertainty sometimes overshadows normal life, strong and visible security measures can restore public confidence and contribute to national peace of mind. My recent experience demonstrates this truth with clarity.

Upon arriving at the plaza, what struck me immediately was the visible, yet composed, presence of private security officers. They were well uniformed, positioned strategically, and alert to every movement. They were not aggressive or intimidating. Instead, their presence was reassuring and professional. They patrolled key areas, observed closely, and interacted respectfully with patrons.

This environment created a remarkable sense of peace. Shoppers moved about freely. Conversations flowed easily. A general calm permeated the space. I felt safe, genuinely safe, and I noticed that others did too. It was a reminder that safety is not just a feeling, it is the result of deliberate effort, thoughtful planning, and reliable presence.

This model of plaza security should be viewed as a best practice across Jamaica. In an era when criminality can appear both random and bold, the reassurance that comes from trained professionals being visibly present is powerful. It helps to prevent potential threats, reassures the public, and promotes a culture of order and respect.

Furthermore, this experience challenges the narrative that safety in Jamaica is out of reach. Instead, it shows that with the right investment and consistent commitment, commercial and public spaces can become environments in which people feel protected and at ease.

Too often, public discourse is dominated by stories of crime and disorder. While these issues must be addressed, the positive examples should also be acknowledged. The quiet success I witnessed at Constant Spring Road deserves public recognition. The plaza’s security team demonstrated that safety in Jamaica is not an illusion. It is possible through vigilance, professionalism, and community support.

Let this experience serve as a call to action for plaza managers, business operators, and community leaders. Visible, courteous, and effective security measures make a meaningful difference. Jamaica is still safe. When we work together to protect what matters, peace is not only possible, it becomes the norm.

Leroy Fearon

Lecturer

leroyfearon85@gmail.com