Jamaica: State of emergency extended in Saint James parish /update 5

Event

The Jamaican parliament has unanimously voted to extend the state of emergency (SOE) in Saint James parish - in place since January 2018 - through October 31. The parliament also voted to extend Zones of Special Operations (ZOSOs) in certain neighborhoods of the capital Kingston (Denham Town and other areas in the west).

A SOE has also been in effect in Saint Catherine parish since March; it currently scheduled to run until October 2.

Context

During SOEs, police and military personnel are given the authority to search people and buildings, cut business hours, and detain individuals without a warrant.

Authorities have launched major police operations in both parishes to combat a significant rise in crime. The SOEs have been credited with a drop in rates of homicide, from a national daily rate of 4.65 to 3.44.

Advice

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