KINGSTON — Jamaica extended its nationwide state of emergency for a third consecutive month. Friday as the deepening gang conflict in Kingston has now displaced an estimated 14,000 residents from the capital’s most volatile parishes, according to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. The extension, approved by Parliament in a 48-12 vote, grants security forces expanded powers to conduct warrantless searches and impose curfews across the Kingston metropolitan area through mid-July.
The gang war, which erupted in April when the Shower Posse and its rival the Gully faction clashed over territory in Trench Town and August Town communities, has now spread to four parishes. Police Commissioner Dr. Karl Angell said at least 22 suspected gang members had been killed in confrontations with security forces since the emergency began, and that 47 firearms had been seized. Human rights groups raised concerns about the civilian toll, citing hospital reports of 38 civilian deaths linked to crossfire since April.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said it was preparing a rapid assessment mission to the affected parishes. Prime Minister Holmes said the extension was painful but necessary and pledged a community rehabilitation fund of 200 million Jamaican dollars for displaced families. Tourism officials expressed concern the state of emergency could affect the upcoming winter travel season.
Jamaica’s economy, still recovering from pandemic-era debt, faces mounting pressure as violence deters investment and strains public services in the capital.
Written by Diego Vargas, Latin America Correspondent