Security after Henderson murder

THE EDITOR: Much is being asked and written about the Henderson murder in Macqueripe which is really not the business of the public. What we all should be deeply concerned about is whether it is safe to be in the Macqueripe area at all and if, as the information seems to be suggesting, people who find themselves there are at risk from trigger happy soldiers looking for live targets or, thieves and bandits disguised as security personnel/soldiers looking for victims. To many of us, areas like Macqueripe/Chaguaramas, and the Queen’s Park Savannah, are critical to our well being and peace of mind and incidents like the Henderson murder would further accelerate the fast deteriorating quality of our lives. Of course so does the ignominy of politics and Parliament but should we also have to silently endure physical abuse and murder when there are many who, for fair compensation, have committed to protecting us.

Why are we powerless to demand from such persons in Government and national security that these areas should be made safe for the public? Can we trust the soldiers, the security personnel or the protective services patrolling these areas? Isn’t the audacity of these common criminals an affront to the intelligence, dignity and self respect of those in government and national security? Where really is the challenge in simply securing these areas? If those in Government and national security are lazy, afraid or lack the competence, they can at least set up cameras at selected locations (need I advise where as well?). Thereafter, in the security of their canteens, offices, or even bunks, they can monitor activity in the area.

This at least would be a beginning and a deterrent to criminals. If Macqueripe beach is attracting criminals and drug activity, close it off to the public at night and set up a security post there — move the one protecting whatever it does at Teteron and relocate it in Macqueripe to protect the public. What is so difficult about all of this? Why isn’t the press, and particularly those who write the many irrelevant editorials, relentlessly challenging and harassing those with whom we have an agreement to ensure our safety and security?

EUGENE A REYNALD
Port-of-Spain