21 Jamaicans killed by security force so far - INDECOM

New data from the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is showing that, as of January 19, some 21 Jamaicans have been fatally shot by the security forces.

This is the 14th consecutive month in which 20 or more people have been fatally shot by members of the security forces, a trend that began in December 2024 and has continued through January 2026.

For the corresponding period last year, 28 people were killed by the security forces in January 2025.

The figure so far this month already places January 2026 above the monthly threshold that has become a consistent feature of state-involved killings.

For 2025, Jamaica recorded 311 police fatal shootings, representing a 65 per cent increase over the previous year, which INDECOM described as a troubling 2025.

The sharp rise has intensified scrutiny of police use of lethal force, even as authorities point to ongoing confrontations with armed suspects.

Police officials have repeatedly stated that fatal shootings occur during confrontations and in circumstances where officers act in self-defence or in defence of others.

However, the instances of fatal shootings have continued to draw concern from human rights advocates and oversight bodies.

In response to accountability concerns, the police have reported that they have received 1,000 new body-worn cameras, a move aimed at improving transparency and strengthening evidence gathering.

The police have maintained that they will dictate where the devices will be deployed.

As the year progresses, attention remains focused on whether the long-running trend will persist and whether enhanced oversight and technology will lead to a reduction in fatal encounters involving law enforcement.

- Andre Williams

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