As of May 31, Jamaica’s murder tally stood at 221, a 23 per cent decline compared with the 288 killings reported during the corresponding period last year, according to the latest crime statistics released by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).The figures represent 67 fewer murders than were recorded during the same five-month period in 2025 and continue a downward trend in violent crime across the island.The latest JCF data also show that only eight murders were reported between May 24 and May 31, marking a return to single-digit weekly homicides after consecutive reporting periods that saw double-digit murder figures.St James recorded the highest number of murders nationally, with 30 homicides — a 36 per cent increase over the corresponding period last year.St Andrew South followed with 21 murders but recorded a 48 per cent reduction in killings.Clarendon and St Andrew Central each recorded 18 murders.While Clarendon saw a six per cent increase in murders, St Andrew Central registered a 13 per cent rise year-on-year.St Ann and Kingston Eastern rounded out the divisions with the highest murder counts, recording 15 murders each.St Ann experienced a 21 per cent reduction in killings, while Kingston Eastern recorded a 50 per cent increase.Portland recorded the fewest murders among the island’s police divisions, with just two homicides reported during the period under review.The statistics further indicate reductions across all major categories of serious crime.Break-ins declined by 11 per cent, robberies fell by 25 per cent, rape decreased by 15 per cent, while shootings dropped by 31 per cent.Overall, major crimes were down by approximately 20 per cent during the first five months of the year.- Andre WilliamsFollow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.