Prime Minister Andrew Holness says citizens’ prayers played a role in the reduction of murders last year.

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, 1,139 people were murdered in 2024 —265 fewer than in 2023, representing a 19% decrease.

Speaking this morning at the Heal the Family, Heal the Nation church service at the National Arena in Kingston, Mr. Holness said he prayed for peace and believes the prayers of citizens contributed significantly to the decline in murders.

The Prime Minister urged citizens to continue praying for members of the security forces.

The church service was held under the theme, “The Hour of Decision.”