I received the communication below from Jamaica For Justice (JFJ). I remember many years ago, when a few of us started forming groups across the island, such as the Citizens' Initiative Organization, the Portmore Combined Citizens' Association, and Jamaica For Justice; it was to defend decent citizens.
You cannot just look at the increase in police killings by itself and demonstrate about that. Many who have lost their lives at the hands of police do so because they confront the police. My position is if you confront the police with a weapon, then that amounts to suicide. If the police kill you, then I cannot condemn the police.
Let us identify those specific cases of what seem to be unjustified police killings. We now have systems in place to deal with extrajudicial police killings, so I cannot see how a protest will help the cause.
One should note that if more alleged criminals confront the police, then it is likely that police killings will increase.
The protest could give the public the impression that the JFJ is defending criminals, and that would be unfortunate.
Press Release From Jamaica For Justice:
Jamaicans for Justice to Host End Police Violence Protest Amid Alarming Rise in Police Killings |
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| Kingston, Jamaica – April 9, 2025– Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) is set to hold an End Police Violence Protest on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Half Way Tree Transport Centre (opposite JN Bank). The event aims to spotlight the escalating crisis of police fatal shootings in Jamaica and demand accountability, justice, and systemic reform. This year alone, 93 individuals have been killed by police, marking a staggering 165% increase compared to the same period in 2024. |
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JFJ’s Executive Director, Mickel Jackson, has warned that if this trend continues, the country could surpass its highest recorded figures, exceeding the 258 deaths reported in 2013—numbers not seen since before the establishment of the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM).
The protest will bring together victims, their families, human rights advocates, and concerned citizens to amplify their voices and push for change. Participants will engage in a peaceful rally with placards and chants such as “End Police Violence”, “Where are the body-worn cameras?” and “Accountability Now,” alongside victim testimonials and solidarity speeches from civil society leaders.
JFJ calls on the public, community groups, and media to join this critical movement to confront systemic issues within law enforcement and advocate for a Jamaica where human rights and dignity are upheld for all.
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Stand Up for Justice! Let's Unite Against Police Violence!
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