PM Cautions Crime Threatens Freedom

Crime has again taken centre stage this time in Emancipation Day messages. Prime Minister Andrew Holness cautions there’ll be no freedom unless the crime is brought under control. He says this will take the partnership of every Jamaican if the culture of violence is to be eradicated.

In his Emancipation Day message, Prime Minister Andrew Holness says there is growing concern among Jamaicans about crime.

He says nation-builders would have been disappointed with the people.

It has been almost two decades since Jamaica’s murder rate has been under the 1000 mark. Last year 1,323 murders were reported, translating to almost four murders each day.

Mr Holness says not only is crime a major disease but notes violence is being inculcated in the minds of the youth. He says unless the people unite to fight crime the cycle of crime and violence will continue.

Up to July 24, there have been 806 reported murders, 700 shooting incidents, 676 persons injured, 240 reported rape cases, 462 robberies, and 530 break-ins.

The Prime Minister’s speech was themed ‘ There’s No Freedom Where Violence Exists’.