Can the Jamaican Security Forces Successfully Reduce the Violent Impact of Gangs?

This thesis discusses the high murder rate in Jamaica as a consequence of gang activity, the negative impact of gangs on national security, and ways in which the Jamaican government can counter gang activities using Jamaican security forces. Endemic corruption, a weak justice system, an unreformed security sector, and limited social intervention with youth facilitate the gang phenomenon. The complexity of the gang problem is further illustrated by the gangs connection to political parties and society overall. A case study comparison of gangs in Jamaica, Brazil, and Guatemala was conducted to identify workable approaches to the gang problem. Various countergang operations were reviewed and an assessment made as to their level of effectiveness. The research reveals the reason why Jamaica has failed to address gangs as a national security issue. The thesis concludes by identifying the preconditions for successful countergang operations, recommending that social programs be a part of countergang operations, and advocating the establishment of a Joint-Interagency Task Force on gangs.