Jamaica has seen a 9.8 per cent decline in major crimes compared to the previous year, according to the latest serious crimes report by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Based on the JCF data, the country recorded 854 murders as of Friday, August 12, compared to 947 murders this time last year.

St James and Westmoreland recorded the highest number of murders for the period, which accounted for 127 and 76, respectively.

The parish of Westmoreland was followed closely by the St Andrew South Police Division with 75 murders, Clarendon with 67, St Catherine North with 66, and St Catherine South with 64.

Murders were recorded in all parishes up to the period.

There has also been a notable decline in shootings, robberies, rape and break-ins.