By: Sugar Ray Thomas

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck has expressed hope that Jamaica’s 2026 murder tally will not exceed four hundred (400).

673 murders were recorded last year, representing a 41 percent reduction when compared to 2024. 

Mr. Chuck says a reduction for 2026 could be close to 50 percent. 

However, he is expressing concern about murders in Police Area 3, which covers Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth. 

 Minister Chuck was speaking at the Wednesday’s launch of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Policy Development and Estate Planning Public Education Campaign.