Jamaica: States of emergency to expire in Kingston, three other parishes /update 9

Event

The Jamaican government failed to receive enough votes in parliament to extend states of emergency in parts of Kingston and the parishes of Saint Andrew, Saint Catherine, and Saint James, with orders set to expire throughout January. Emergency measures expired in Saint Catherine north on Wednesday, January 2, although officials implemented a curfew through 18:00 (local time) on Sunday, January 6. The orders for Kingston western and central as well as Saint Andrew south will expire on Monday, January 7, while measures in Saint James will expire on January 31.

Context

States of emergency were issued beginning in January 2018 due to rising crime rates. Zones of Special Operations (ZOSOs) have also been issued for parts of Kingston which permit the military to participate in joint operations with police to counter violent crime.

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

Advice

Individuals present in the above areas, and across 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.).