(Jamaica Gleaner) – The Jamaica Constabulary Force has released the murder figures for 2009.

The data show that 62 more people were killed last year than in 2008.

A total of 1,680 persons were reported murdered in 2009 compared with the 1,618 in 2008 and 1,583 in 2007.

The gun was the most popular weapon of choice and was used in 77 per cent or 1,293 of the murders followed by the knife which was reported in 14 per cent or 227 of the cases.

There was a slight reduction in the number of women and children killed in 2009 compared with the previous year.

Two less women were killed last year down from the 165 reported in 2008.

And 13 less children were killed last year than the 94 reported in 2008. Gang related murders accounted for the highest number or 52 per cent of the reported killings.