Japan’s ambassador to Jamaica, Yasuhiro Atsumi commended the Government and the security forces on the 35 per cent reduction in murders this year.

Speaking at the handing over of inshore patrol vessels to the security forces, he described the reduction as very good news for all.

He noted that further reduction in the murder rate and major crimes would result in Jamaica being one of the safest areas in the world.

Ambassador Atsumi expressed hope that Japan’s assistance has helped Jamaica’s crime-fighting efforts.