Is there a lot of crime in Jamaica?

"Crime is everywhere in the world, and can strike at any time, any place. Jamaica is no differ, though that said, you need to exercise good judgement personal safety. I would say that you take the same precautions that you would do 'at home'. Don't wear flashy jewellery, clothing, etc. Don't flash the cash around - this is an economically impoverished country and it breeds opportunist criminals as it does in London, New York, Paris or any where else. Most of the violent crime in Jamaica is confined to certain areas and is drug or gang related. Most people have no business being in 'those' areas - what Jamaicans term 'volatile' areas and so don't wander voyeuristically into them the same way you wouldn't wonder around certain projects or ghettoes in the US or wherever you happen to live. Mind your own business and keep out of other people's business. I wouldn't wonder around the streets of London alone at night and I'm not about to do that here. Above all, treat other people as you would expect to be treated, keep your sense of humour about you, and you will be just fine," said a member in Kingston, Jamaica.

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"Yes, there is a lot of crime in Jamaica. There have been reports of gang-related violence, drug trafficking, robberies and muggings, mainly concentrated in the country's inner cities and resort towns. People have been known to break into homes and steal valuables, and vehicle theft is also fairly commonplace. Jamaica also has one of the world's highest murder rates," remarked another expat who made the move to Jamaica.