Security Minister Calls Police Killing Claims 'Abominable'
Jamaica's National Security Minister, Horace Chang, has refuted allegations of extrajudicial killings by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), labeling the claims "abominable." The statement comes amid public outcry over recent incidents involving police use of force, with the minister asserting the government's commitment to accountability.
The minister's comments follow a significant increase in fatal shootings by security forces in recent years. The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) reported 189 such killings in 2024, a 22% rise from 155 in 2023. This upward trend continued into 2025, which saw 311 people killed by police, a 65% increase over the previous year. However, the first two months of 2026 have shown a 14% decrease in fatal shootings by security forces compared to the same period in 2025, with 48 people killed. In January 2026 alone, 28 people were fatally shot, mirroring the number from January 2025. INDECOM, the independent body that investigates actions by security forces, has highlighted a significant increase in deaths occurring during planned police operations. Between 2021 and 2024, fatalities in these specific operations surged by 591%. The issue of police body cameras remains contentious; in numerous fatal incidents, cameras were either not worn, not activated, or officers reported forgetting to turn them on. Public outcry has been fueled by several specific incidents, including the September 2025 killing of 22-year-old Jamar Farquharson in Cherry Tree Lane, which sparked protests. More recently, the shooting of 55-year-old Lucian Anderson in Arnett Gardens in February 2026 also led to fiery protests, with residents disputing the police's account of events. National Security Minister Horace Chang has a history of questioning INDECOM's methods, suggesting in the past that the commission's "over enthusiasm" contributes to a low conviction rate for officers. He has maintained that criticism of the police must be based on evidence and has stated that less than 5% of officers involved in fatal shootings are ultimately charged. Human rights organizations have previously criticized the minister's rhetoric. In 2022, comments perceived as endorsing a "shoot to kill" policy were condemned by both INDECOM and Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), with JFJ labeling the stance as "tacit approval of extrajudicial killings." The government has shown support for the police force amidst the criticism. In April 2025, the office of the Prime Minister endorsed a "wear blue" campaign to support the JCF, which coincided with a "wear black" protest against alleged police brutality organized by JFJ. In February 2026, INDECOM raised serious concerns that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) was investigating police-involved shootings without notifying the commission, as required by law. INDECOM stated this failure to report undermines the statutory oversight framework and compromises transparency.
