A total of 19 murders were recorded from January 20 to January 27, bringing the total number since the start of the year to 65.

According to Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) statistics, the number represents a 19.8 per cent decline in murders compared to the same period (January 1 to January 27) last year.

The St James Police Division continues to lead the murder tally, with 12 recorded since the start of the year. St Ann follows with eight, with the St Catherine North Police Division next with seven.

However, the number of shootings has increased by 12, while robberies have increased by four when compared to the same period last year.

Break-ins have decreased by eight per cent, while incidents of rape have declined by 47.5 per cent.

Overall, major crimes have declined by nine per cent when compared to the same period last year.