No new crime plan was unveiled by the police high command today (Nov 17).

Instead, Police Commissioner George Quallo gave updates on the successes of the constabulary in fighting crime.

He said strategies are in place, but they needed to be retooled and refocused.

The police high command also highlighted a number of areas the police intend to place focus on, in its fight against crime.

Some quarters of the society had expected to hear new strategies as the country deals with the high number of murders.

To date, there were 1,404 murders, compared to 1, 137 for the corresponding period last year.

This means 267 more persons were killed so far this year, compared to 2016.

This is a 23 point 5 percent increase in murders.

The police chief admitted that crime and violence have hampered the country’s growth and development over many years.

When asked how the police would be dealing with the crime monster he indicated that cops would continue the work being done.

He added that the number of guns and ammunition seized and the arrest of crime producers, are signs the police are on the right path in getting the crime monster under control.

When asked about his ability to get crime under control the commissioner said all needed to be involved in the effort.

Commissioner Quallo says while a lot is being done to stem the high incidents of crime and violence , maintain law and order and uphold peace, criminal and gang activities continue to be a feature in communities across the island.

He adds that the police’s efforts are being challenged by a number of variables.

C

In citing some developments so far, he said a number of Jamaica’s most wanted were arrested or killed in violent confrontation with the security forces earlier this year.

Among them was Marlon Perry, otherwise called Duppy Film.

He added that a number of persons have been arrested under the anti-gang legislation.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner George Quallo says guns have been used in 82 percent of murders since the start of the year, even as efforts are doubled to remove illegal guns from the streets.

Mr. Quallo says the get the guns campaign has been successful since inception in September 2015.

Up to november 11, police seized 1 one thousand 6 hundred and 61 illegal weapons and 32 thousand 2 hundred 33 rounds of ammunition under the programme.

Commissioner Quallo says so far this year more than 700 guns have been seized.

In the meantime, the police chief says more high powered rifles are being taken off the streets, with this year seeing a 100 percent increase in the seizure of that type of weapon.

He adds that with more than 100 unofficial ports of entry to the island, the authorities are ensuring a monitoring of the ports to prevent entry of illegal guns for the drugs trade.