Dear Editor,
The Lawyers’ Christian Fellowship (LCF) expresses grave concern and deep moral distress at reports of fatal shootings by members of the security forces at the start of this new year, as well as the disturbing pattern of such killings that marked the past year.
While we acknowledge and commend the reported reduction in murders and major crimes during 2025, this achievement is severely undermined by the significant increase in fatal encounters involving the security forces. Even more troubling is the indication that this pattern has continued into the new year, with multiple deaths reported on New Year’s Day alone, including during joint police and military operations.
Of particular concern are reports emerging from communities where eyewitness accounts appear to contradict official statements, and where civilians – including a young child – have allegedly lost their lives in circumstances that raise serious questions about the use of force, restraint, professionalism, and respect
for human dignity.
As Christian lawyers, the LCF is guided by the biblical principle that all human life is sacred, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The unjust taking of life, whether by criminal elements or by agents of the state acting outside the bounds of law, is a grave moral wrong.
The Constitution of Jamaica guarantees the right to life and permits the use of lethal force only where it is strictly necessary, proportionate, and lawful. Any departure from these principles threatens the rule of law and erodes public confidence in the justice system.
The LCF:
• Condemns all extra-judicial killings and unlawful use of force by state agents;
• Calls for prompt, independent, and transparent investigations into all fatal shootings;
• Supports the mandatory use of body-worn cameras in all security operations;
• Urges strengthened accountability, training, and oversight;
• Calls on the Church and civil society to pray and act for justice and peace.
Justice, accountability, and respect for life, are not obstacles to national security; they are its foundation.
“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8
I am,
Helene Coley Nicholson
For
LAWYERS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (LCF)
