In the midst of Carnival, concerns about crime

Next week Monday and Tuesday, the streets of the country will be ablaze with colour and creativity, as masqueraders and supporters alike, release the burdens of daily life and living in joyful abandon.

But for many of us who live and work here, what we feel also is a deep sense of fear, anxiety and outright frustration in relation to crime and criminal activity. The TT Chamber is of the view that despite claims of decline as validated by police statistics, crime – and more so – violent crime remains a huge challenge in TT.

Law enforcement has been on the receiving end of much criticism, particularly when it comes to the issue of the woefully low detection rate. In the face of this opposition, the acting Commissioner of Police has expressed some measure of pride in the recently reported “42 murder-free days” in the Port-of-Spain Division. Historically, this Division has registered some of the highest levels of serious crime in the country; as such, the “murder-free” days are being viewed as no small feat.

We commend the Division for the targeted effort that is presumably being invested in accomplishing this record achievement. But the gravity of the situation on the ground does not allow for the Police Service to rest on its proverbial laurels. The truth is that not all crime is reported to the police, and because of that, numerous unlawful acts never make their way into a station diary, or be captured in police statistics.

One of the most damaging effects of crime on our society is the deep sense of fear that it engenders. It forces a person to alter his/her normal habits and lifestyle choices. Someone will think twice before going to places that would normally be frequent and every move must be planned in advance, in conjunction with a trusted loved one. While taking precaution is necessary, and increased vigilance justifiable, it could equally be said that sometimes, people begin to see shadows over their shoulders, even where they do not exist.

Until the threat of punishment is clearly and firmly articulated, wilful perpetrators of violence will not be deterred in any way from committing nefarious acts. Even in situations of domestic dispute where acts of violence are often motivated by passion, the powers-that-be must convincingly communicate an approach of zero tolerance and severe consequences for this form of anti-social behaviour.

We categorically demand accountability from the Police in combating crime. But what about us? What are we the people doing collectively and as individuals to bring about a massive change wave throughout our society? Have we challenged ourselves to act responsibly, at all times, and within the boundaries of the law? Are we positively influencing our immediate circles of family and friends, to do the right thing? Or do we see crime as somebody else’s problem? Are we still pointing fingers at… others? Yes… the countdown is on to Carnival. But it appears that the clock is ticking steadily towards something far more sinister, if as a society, we do not deal strategically and holistically with crime. We know only too well that far more than a conversation, it takes deliberate and determined action.

To those who will be participating in the Carnival celebrations, going to the beaches or simply remaining at home… on behalf of the TT Chamber: best wishes for safe and secure days.