National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has noted that the 43 per cent reduction in murders is the lowest first-quarter rate since 2001.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing yesterday, Dr. Chang outlined the latest statistics from the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The security forces reported major gains in National Security, highlighting the lowest murder rate in over three decades.

Year-to-date figures reveal a 43.3 per cent reduction in murders between January 1 and May 28.

Dr. Chang said this is for 275 murders so far this year, compared to 485 recorded during the corresponding period last year.

With Jamaica on track to record a murder rate of approximately 24 per hundred thousand population, the lowest since 1991, the Government is pledging to continue and deepen its investment in crime-fighting technologies, border control and economic empowerment.

Dr. Chang said the second quarter of this year is on track to break the record set by the first quarter.