Community policing a must

THE EDITOR: As we continue to experience an upsurge in crime, it is necessary that we look again at the crime plan and see if it is truly accomplishing the results that were expected. That to me is good and effective management and it is necessary if we are going to move forward in winning this war against crime.

If we are not careful we can become so accustomed to the murders, home invasions, and robberies that immunity can take place, and many see it as just another day in the life of the population in TT. Believe me that can happen to us. A life loss, a home invasion, or a robbery is not a pleasant thing for anyone. How many have perished prematurely or suffered innocently while others are still trying to recover from the trauma? When these acts are heard, sadness prevails throughout many communities. We would have read about the many stories that also involved our senior citizens, those who have given so much to our twin island. There is no more respect for the elderly.

Having said the above, I again call on the relevant authorities to put in place community policing both day and night, with an emphasis on the nights. While it is not the total solution for solving crime in TT, judging from where we are, I believe the presence of officers at night consistently driving through the communities can be a deterrent.

This is just one suggestion that must be implemented. We need to invest in more vehicles and personnel for this purpose; to me, this is money well spent. Now this must be properly organised. The citizenry would feel a sense of security seeing these vehicles on patrol; this goes a long way.

In humility and in no way criticising anyone, much needs to be done to restore the confidence of the public; crime is everyone’s concern. It is all around us. I still believe some degree of peace and safety can once again be part of our twin islands. We simply cannot throw in the towel and say that there is no hope, which to me is taking the easy way out of a situation. Leaders, business sectors, religious organisations, and citizens, it is up to us to work together to make TT a better place for all.

It is important that we who are here leave a good legacy for those coming after we have passed off the scene. I look forward to seeing real, effective community policing implemented throughout TT. Let's do it together, for when it is all said and done, this is our home, and what takes place here, good or bad, can impact us and our offspring.

ARNOLD GOPEESINGH

San Juan