KINGSTON, Jamaica — Head of Area 3, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips, is urging citizens of south-central Jamaica to form and maintain active neighbourhood watches in their communities.

He was speaking at the launch of the Yardley Chase Neighbourhood Watch on Sunday. The watch, which is the first launched since the year, is a joint initiative of community members, the St Elizabeth Police Division and the Community Safety and Security Branch.

The leadership of the JCF’s Area Three, St Elizabeth police and other personnel pose for a photo under the Yardley Chase Neighbourhood sign in St Elizabeth on Sunday

Under the theme “I Can, You Can, We Can: Stronger Together”, the initiative aims to strengthen community-police relations and improve safety and trust between law enforcement and residents.

Noting that the road ahead will not be easy as criminals are finding new ways to commit crimes, Phillips challenged police and residents to make 2026 a record year for the most neighbourhood watches launched.

“The establishment of this neighbourhood watch group is sending a message that we will not stand by and let criminals take over our neighbourhoods,” he said.

He stressed that neighbourhood watches are a vital part of the fight against crime as they foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents, encouraging them to actively participate in protecting their communities.

Last year, Jamaica experienced a significant decline in major crimes. To continue this downward trend, increased police–community partnerships are essential. The Neighbourhood Watch Movement has long been a leader in fostering such partnerships. Residents are therefore encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

The launch of the neighbourhood watch programme in Yardley Chase District is expected to positively impact the community, with residents already showing enthusiasm and dedication to the initiative.

The success of these watches relies on active participation from the community, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force is urging everyone to get involved.

“We are stronger together, and as we embark on this journey, let us commit to playing our individual roles and empowering each other so that, collectively, we can build and sustain safer communities through meaningful partnerships and purposeful collaboration,” said ACP Phillips.

The launch event was attended by community leaders, residents and police personnel, all of whom pledged their support for the initiative.