Fatal police shootings down 14 Per Cent

Fatal shootings by Jamaica's security forces have dropped by 14 per cent for the first two months of 2026 when compared to the same period last year, according to new figures released by the Independent Commission of Investigations, INDECOM.

The data show that 48 people were fatally shot by members of the security forces between January and February this year. During the corresponding period in 2025, 56 people were killed.

That marks a reduction of eight deaths, representing a 14.3 per cent decline.

A closer look at the figures shows that January 2026 recorded 28 fatal shootings, the same number as January 2025. The decline came in February, which saw 20 fatal shootings this year compared to 28 in February last year.

Up to March 2, no fatal police shooting has been recorded for the month.

One of the latest incidents happened in Coral Gardens, St James, where three men, reportedly from the Corporate Area, were killed during a police operation shortly after 11 p.m. on February 26.

INDECOM said it was notified of the triple fatal shooting and has launched an independent probe into the circumstances.

Police reported that members of the operational team had separated when they encountered the three men. Two of the deceased allegedly attempted to relieve officers of their firearms and were shot during the confrontation. The third man was reportedly pointing a firearm at the police, prompting officers to open fire.

Two firearms were reportedly recovered from the scene.

The identities of the three men have not yet been released.

INDECOM also noted that no body worn cameras were reported as being issued to or worn by the officers involved in the incident.

The investigation remains ongoing.

- Andre Williams

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