Jamaica: Security forces redeployed to Kingston, Montego Bay

Event

Authorities have redeployed soldiers and police officers to parts of Kingston and Montego Bay (Saint James parish) due to a recent increase in violence. On Monday, April 23, additional security forces were sent to the Denham Town neighborhood of Kingston and the Mount Salem area of Montego Bay. Both areas have been designated as a “zone of special operations” (ZOSO) since late 2017. According to officials, over 20 people have been shot in recent weeks, prompting the increased security measures in the ZOSOs.

An increased security presence, along with additional checkpoints and operations, are anticipated in Denham Town and Mount Salem in the coming weeks.

Context

On April 11, the Jamaican government approved extending the ZOSOs in Denham Town and Mount Salem for 60 days. Parts of Saint James parish are currently under a state of emergency until May 2; a state of emergency is also in effect for areas of Saint Catherine parish until July 3. Security operations have been ongoing since January 18 in high crime areas of both parishes.

Advice

Individuals present in Denham Town and Mount Salem, and Jamaica more generally, are advised to remain vigilant, follow all instructions issued by local authorities, and take basic security precautions (e.g. keep signs of wealth concealed, drive with doors locked and windows rolled up, etc.).