Police seek 14 to help solve crimes

The Ministry of National Security yesterday published the pictures of 14 men in newspaper advertisements  who, according to the Ministry, may have information “key to the current drive to reduce crime in the country.” The ad was headlined, “Face to Face”. A senior police officer described the men as “hardened criminals.” Senior police officers said yesterday the 14 men are wanted by the police for various crimes, and officers feel that if they are apprehended, a number of crimes could be solved.

Newsday learnt that a decision was taken last week to publish the pictures as part of a strategy to deal with the escalating crime situation. According to police sources, the 14 men are wanted for murder, robberies, rape and other high profile crimes. A telephone number 624-8154, which is a line at the Ministry of National Security, was also printed in the newspaper ads. When Newsday telephoned the number, the person who answered said that all information on the whereabouts of the men would be forwarded to the police. The response from members of the public was described as positive.

Sources revealed that all police divisions were asked to submit the hot spot crime areas in the country and the names and pictures of the persons who, the police believe, may be responsible for the current crime wave in the country. The strategy is aimed at getting members of the public involved to assist the police in apprehending the wanted men. “We need the support of the public in the fight against crime,” said a senior police officer yesterday.

Newsday learnt that Minister of National Security Martin Joseph and Police Commissioner Trevor Paul spent several hours in a meeting on Friday to discuss strategies to deal with the crime problem. Today, more than 1,000 police officers who are on leave are expected to report to their respective police stations. Paul recalled the officers to duty last week. He told Newsday that he intends to have a visible police presence in all hot spot crime areas as part of the anti-crime initiative. The commissioner said that he intends to keep his promise to introduce an aggressive fight against crime, but within the confines of the law. He urged citizens to have patience and assist the police as they go about the task of taking back the country from the hands of the criminal elements.