Cameras can help prevent gun crimes

WITH A population of more than 120 million, Japan had 933 murders in 2015, which occurred without the use of firearms, demonstrating that nowhere is exempt from murders, but instances where the gun is used can be reduced.

An official of the Japanese Embassy in Kingston told The Gleaner that the likelihood of being caught for a murder or any other type of crime is crucial in preventing future crimes.

“Arrest cases [in Japan] were 938, so arrests for murder cases are very high,” said the official, who was authorised to speak but requested anonymity for security purposes. “In my opinion, it is very, very important to catch the criminal. That prevents another murder.”

TRUST JUSTICE SYSTEM

There is very little objection from the citizens of Japan to cooperate with the police because persons are aware of the high rate of arrests.

The official also highlighted that surveillance cameras could play a big part in preventing gun crimes in Jamaica. He recommends that Jamaica adopt a similar approach. “In some areas, we have security cameras. The police ask persons to submit their own camera (evidence). We don’t have much security cameras in public, but some people do have cameras in their shops and their house. That would be very effective in Jamaica. Under the Japanese police strategy, they seize camera records, car records or telephone records. Those are the main strategies to catch the criminals,” he stressed. “Some people might stay quiet and be afraid, but the arrest rate is so high, the people will trust the justice system.”