National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has reiterated that States of Public Emergency, SOEs, are effective in reducing murders. 

Speaking this morning at the launch of the 2023 Jamaica National Crime Victimisation Survey results Dr. Chang highlighted the rate of homicides in the country. 

He said data show that gangs contribute to a majority of these murders. 

Dr. Chang said the survey results have allowed the government to focus on the criminal organisations and also implement social intervention measures to steer children away from gangs. 

He noted that the use of SOEs is one measure that has been effective in tackling gangs.