Montego Bay stakeholders hail crime reduction there this year

Stakeholders in Montego Bay, St James are hailing the decline in crime in the parish since the start of the year.

February marked a historic low in violent crimes, with only one murder being recorded.

Data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) showed that between January 1 and February 18, six murders were reported in St James, compared to 22 over the same period last year, representing  a decline of 72.7 per cent.

There were 11 cases of shootings, compared to 21, a 47.6 per cent reduction; while rape, which numbered nine in 2024, dropped to four, a 55.6 per cent decrease.

Commanding officer for the St James police, Superintendent Eron Samuels, said the downturn in crime in Montego Bay reflects the dedication and hard work of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in partnership with civil society.

“Together, we have made significant strides towards creating a safer environment for both locals and tourists alike. As we move forward, I urge continued collaboration, vigilance and community engagement in our shared mission to make Montego Bay a place where people will want to live and visit.

He said there is no room for complacency.

“As we strive to make Montego Bay a model city for safety and security, it is crucial that we maintain the momentum we have built. We are committed to ensuring that criminals feel that there is no safe haven within our borders. Our officers are dedicated to maintaining a high level of vigilance and responding swiftly to any threats that may arise,” he said.

Superintendent Eron Samuels

“We understand that complacency can undermine our hard-earned gains. Therefore, we will not allow our achievements to be sacrificed on the altar of complacency. Instead, we will continue to adapt and refine our strategies, utilising data and feedback from our community to stay ahead of emerging challenges,” he pledged.

Owner and operator of Smokeez by the Sea Restaurant in Rose Hall, Lowell Spence, said there is a general feeling of safety and security in the city.

“We’ve worked hard to create a safe environment... and the numbers reflect that we’re on the right track,” he said.

President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Montego Bay Area Chapter, Kerry-Ann Quallo Casserly, said the recent statistics “are not just numbers, but represent lives, families and communities feeling secure.

“There are three official cities on the island (Kingston, Montego Bay and nominally, Portmore). It cannot be lost on anyone that we have now become the safest… safest for both our tourists and locals… and something we can all be proud of,” she stated.

Deputy Chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, John Byles, credited the police for ensuring a safe environment.

“The presence of law enforcement has been pivotal in this progress. The police are doing a magnificent job,” he said, noting the visible increase in police patrols throughout the city.

For his part, transport operator Paul Roberts said communities are feeling much safer.

“The fear that once gripped our neighbourhoods is dissipating. As the crime rates continue to decline, we must remain vigilant and proactive in our approach to safety,” he stated.

Guest house owner, Shirley James, also emphasised the importance of unity in maintaining the city’s safety.

“We cannot afford to be complacent; an all-in approach is essential. Everyone, from business owners to community members, needs to play their part in ensuring Montego Bay remains a safe haven,” she said.

“We deserve recognition for the strides we’ve made. Our communities are safe, and visitors are welcomed with open arms,” she added.