Advocacy group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) is standing firm in its opposition to what it describes as the routine use of extraordinary security powers and restriction of civil liberties to fight crime.

In a statement, JFJ says the constitution is clear as to the circumstances that warrant a state of emergency declaration.

The group says the prime minister’s assertion that the extraordinary measures be instituted following a significant increase in violent criminal activities within the areas is not an emergency as contemplated by the constitution.

JFJ notes further that the regulations that must legislatively accompany these measures are at this time not published.

It maintains that there must be more sustainable ways to respond to crime.

It says government must focus on providing police with improved investigative tools, improving the pace of the investigative process, such as DNA and ballistics analysis and enhancing protections for witnesses of crime to encourage reporting and participation in trial processes.