The crime watch challenge

Therefore, there is the need for constant vigilance – on the part of ALL. Protecting ourselves from armed criminals and terrorists is not simply a matter for the security forces, although they are, and must function effectively as our first line of defence. We all have a role to play.

At the same time, every effort should be made to avoid confusing vigilance with rumours and suspicions that could foster cynicism, result in complacency, and ultimately prove detrimental to a safe environment from criminals and copy cat terrorists.

However, if suspicions are not properly handled and responsibly managed, they could lead to unnecessary problems and, even conflicts.

As a major tourist destination and a society that prides itself on its civility and democratic traditions, citizens would be aware of how demanding the challenge could be in being vigilant against criminality, of any kind, and rushing to feed suspicions and rumours.

At this time, right across our Caribbean community, security forces are reviewing, strategising and strengthening their resources and capabilities in the war against crime and possible terrorist strikes.

Recognising the necessity for greater collaboration in combating trans-border crimes, representatives of the region’s security forces have been engaged, at various levels, in planning meetings.

At their just-concluded 26th annual Heads of Government conference in St Lucia, the Caribbean Community leaders assessed the status quo of arrangements for a new "framework for crime and security."

At the apex of this new "framework" to "frontally address and effectively tackle," as they pledged, the issues of crime and security, the community leaders agreed to establish a permanent Council of Ministers For National Security and Law Enforcement.

This council is to have both supervisory and implementation functions through a recommended Security Policy Advisory Committee and an Implementation Agency for Crime and Security.

Let us hope that those involved in the process do not become overwhelmed by the layers of bureaucracy and affect the productivity required.