A view of Laventille from NY

THE EDITOR: In New York, the talk of the town is totally about Laventille. Laventille has earned its distinctive place in the criminal history archives.

While the police ponders and contemplates about the approach and modus operandi, the citizens will undoubtedly experience more pain and suffering before “D Day” comes up. I understand it’s not an easy job dealing with high class criminals but the absence of invasion and interventions is a crime in itself. I certainly believe that the people of Laventille should bring about a class action suit against the Police Commissioner, Hilton Guy.

He has failed to protect the citizens of Laventille. Furthermore, I firmly believe the police are to some extent involved in some criminal activities in TT. What may be called extortion in New York is called crimes in TT. What may be called organised crimes in New York is called a promising drug trade in TT. And you and I know who the culprits are and the major players in the criminal enterprise. Perhaps it may comprise some terrorist group that solely sustains its livelihood by drug sales and extortion. Evidently the threats are real and mortal. It is very credible to say that witnesses who may have seen murders committed can’t speak. It is simply because of the fear of reprisals. Given the current state of affairs in Laventille it would be impossible for the police to make any arrests. Prime Minister Patrick Manning said there is no need for a curfew. It appears that the criminal activities in Laventille are a combination of forces playing distinctive roles to support.

The Government that fails to implement a curfew, the police that fails to protect its citizens and the terrorist who promotes crimes for lucrative sustenance. When will the lives of innocent children and families be protected? Perhaps after the invasion of “Baghdad” as the police proclaims.

JAY G RAKHAR
New York