Killing spree in TT: How do we proceed?

From the drive-by shooting death of Balmatie Bachan to the strangling of Rachael Ramkissoon and the shooting of 28 others stems the question: What is the cause of this killing spree? I have heard people attribute the rise in poverty as a possible reason, but none of these murders have been related to robberies, which would have been the obvious result of people becoming impoverished and desperate.

Is it gang violence? If so, what is the gain to be had from killing people such as Ramkissoon, who from all accounts had nothing to do with gangs.

Another plausible explanation is that of drugs. The battle for turf and the preservation of the lucrative trade in drugs and firearms have led to a wide-scale war that is targeted at anyone who stands in the way, real or perceived. In light of this, it is reasonable to assume that no one is safe, as it is possible that in this context mistaken identity and collateral damage are distinct realities.

Clearly there seems to be cluelessness by law enforcement to make a dent in this crisis and an apparent breakdown of the wheels of justice, which appear to have come to a halt. With the appearance of inaction or ineffectiveness of these institutions along with the indifference signalled by the politicians who have so far dragged their feet on important matters relative to crime, the criminal elements have decided that they now have licence to operate with impunity, and this explains the lawlessness that has engulfed our nation.

How do we proceed? The Police Service needs to address the low-morale situation as too many officers are facing criminal charges. This as well as the present leadership crisis evidenced by the requested resignation of two senior officers for non-performance can demoralise the rank and file of the service to go the extra mile in the face of the current challenging circumstances.

While I acknowledge and compliment the hard-working, dedicated and committed officers in the service — and there are many — an acting police commissioner and a lethargic Judiciary cannot adequately support those in the trenches. With little to inspire, the door remains open for unwanted inducements.

Decisive action is needed as the country is crying out for a positive, visible response to the situation. Perhaps we could begin with a 24/7 Judiciary to treat with the backlog of cases and to improve the time frame for trial of people charged with various offences. The immediate appointment of a Commissioner of Police will benefit the sagging Police Service and the entire country.

Our politicians need to dispense with their narrow partisan positions and do what is right for all citizens. Replace the empty rhetoric with visible, positive action which will provide some reassurance in these perilous times. The country needs it.

Garvin Cole via email