The security forces swooped down on St. James today (Jan 18) in a major assault on criminality.
Their operations are being carried out under a state of public emergency declared by Prime Minister Andrew Holness today at a press conference at Jamaica House.
Under a state of emergency, the security forces have extraordinary powers and some rights are suspended.
In making the case for this action, Mr. Holness said crime and violence and in particular murders, have been escalating in St. James.
335 people were murdered in the parish last year, and a number of persons have been killed so far, this year.
Mr. Holness said, he was advised by the security forces in writing that the level of criminal activity continued, and is so extensive, as to endanger public safety.
Against that background, the Prime Minister explained that he wrote to the Governor General recommending a declaration of a state of public emergency for St. James.
Mr. Holness stated that the governor general signed a proclamation which is dated and takes effect today, January 18.
He explained that the declaration of a state of emergency does not mean the suspension of the rule of law.
The Prime Minister said the security forces have been directed to treat citizens with respect and protect the dignity and safety of all.
Mr. Holness stated that a special hotline has been set up, to be manned by the Jamaica defence force, for persons to give information.
The number is 837-8888.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck explains that resorting to a state of public emergency is the ultimate tool that government can use to restore peace and reclaim public order and security in a community.
He spoke of the extraordinary powers given to the security forces and what residents of St. James should expect.
He cited the almost daily occurrences that demonstrate the breakdown of law and order in St. James, saying data show that St. James has historically and comparatively recorded the highest number of murders for a parish in the history of Jamaica.
And, Minister of National Security Robert Montague urged the full cooperation of St. James residents.
He said it is not the intent to stop residents from carrying out normal activities.
He is also calling on citizens to share information on criminal activities with the police.