Prime Minister Andrew Holness has acknowledged that an ineffective government and corruption of state officials contributed to the escalation of the murder rate.

He also noted that the country’s poor economic circumstances played a role.

Speaking today at the National Security Council seminar, the Prime Minister cited the significant reductions in crime since last year.

He noted that last month recorded the lowest monthly murder count since September last year.

Mr. Holness commended the security forces for their efforts at curbing crime and violence, particularly the drop in murders.

He noted that getting the situation under control will not happen immediately.

The Prime Minister pointed out that fixing the country’s economy allowed the government to make meaningful investments in the security forces so that they can better tackle crime.