2006, will it be another murderous one?

THE EDITOR: Happy New Year! But as we reflect on the year that was 2005 it was not all such a happy year. Crime, criminal activity, kidnappings, murders were the headlines over the past 365 days. The murder rate soared as of December 27, the murder rate reached 382. What will the year 2006 bring? Even though sophisticated equipment was brought in — the “Blimp” and the “Eye in the sky” criminal activity continues. Then the year saw a series of bombings in downtown Port-of-Spain, and an isolated incident on the Western Main Road, St James, four bombings over a three-month period, or should I say “devices” (not bombs!), in the first bombing in July 2005, it was reported 14 people were injured, one seriously. In the other three bombings, no injuries.

Citizens are living in constant fear daily, the criminal element, criminally minded have citizens uneasy, uncomfortable, having to protect themselves against such elements. When the newspaper (The Newsday) took to the streets, from time to time and interviewed citizens, the main topic of concern was crime. The government of the day has promised a reduction in crime, but when? As the year 2005 ends, a new one approaches, can we expect to see results in reducing crime, crime reduction? Will citizens have to continuously live in fear? Will the criminally minded get away scotch free? Questions only the National Security Minister can answer, will the government “calm” the fears of citizens?

KEN SMITH
Woodbrook