Security Minister: Police Need Proper Funding To Fight Crime

Minister of National Security, Dr. Horace Chang, says the crime rate in the country could be reduced, if the police received proper funding. Speaking at the launch of the reducing small arms and light weapons briefing in Jamaica, on Friday, Minister Chang says the police need to be prioritized if they are expected to carry out their duties. 

He also addressed concerns regarding the state of emergency that’s been imposed in St. Catherine. Since the imposition of a State of Emergency throughout the parish on Friday morning, concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of other parishes receiving similar treatment. Speaking at “reducing small arms & light weapons in Jamaica” joint programme, in Montego Bay St. James, on Friday Minister Chang, said while every parish in Jamaica requires a state of emergency, the focus is on the St. Catherine region for the moment. 

He says this is because of the sudden spike in crime. He adds that the escalation of the crime situation should not be blamed on poor policing. He says the government is determined to take action against gang activities. Minister Chang says these gang conflicts are being taken seriously because they have the potential to induce fear, and severely damage the communities involved. 

Reporter: Nasika Alliman