Jamaica gangs

Jamaica’s prime minister declared a widespread state of emergency yesterday to fight a surge in gang violence on an island with one of the highest murder rates in the region. The measure applies to certain communities in the capital of Kingston as well as six of Jamaica’s 14 parishes, including those where popular tourist spots like Montego Bay are located. The state of emergency allows authorities to arrest people and search buildings without a warrant, drawing heavy criticism from political opponents and activists. Similar measures have been imposed in El Salvador and Honduras recently.