The latest statistics revealed by the Jamaica Constabulary Force show some decline in some of the major crimes committed for the month of May.

The cases of murder, shooting and rape have all declined when compared to the corresponding period last year, and although this decline could well be due to coincidence and not necessarily to hard work by the police, we are grateful nonetheless.

We do admit that in some instances, measures implemented by the police have paid off and have contributed to a decline in crime. However, it is the bigger picture that truly matters, as we may see declines this month and then huge increases next month. As even the most impaired mathematician would know, if this happens, there will be very little impact overall.

Although, as we said before, these figures provide hope, even more hope would be provided if the statistics for every month revealed similar declines. We are cognisant that the police are not miracle workers and therefore cannot solve the problem alone and as such, we encourage residents who are armed with useful information to make it available to the police.

Crime affects everyone and everyone should, therefore, work together to solve it.