THE EDITOR, Sir:
MY THOUGHTS have led me to urge the government to give the police more advanced equipment in fighting crime.
Since the criminals have now turned their guns on the cops, it is the government's responsibility to afford them the maximum protection when they are sent into known violent areas.
Our leaders have failed us. With the murder of 11 policemen since January 1, the country has been placed in a veritable state of emergency.
No, the leaders have not declared it, but look in the eyes of any policeman and you will see the fear and trembling that exist.
The fact is, they are helpless under these circumstances and further, the record will show, helpless also to protect the citizens which they have sworn to do.
At best, they have now become, sadly so, a reactionary group with little or no respect.
Further, it is pathetic that so-called business leaders attempt to blame the crime problems in Jamaica on the lack of jobs and other opportunities for advancement.
What they fail to realise is that the thugs who kill policemen and prey on ordinary citizens will not work for any pay.
They have never gained the work ethic and cannot hold a job. So, the fact that there are few jobs in Jamaica is not an excuse for crime.
The criminals do not need a crutch and those with influence should not give them one.
Remember, violent crime in Jamaica is committed by the unemployed and further the unemployable. We need to punish criminals harshly, not coddle them.
On the question of logistical support for the police, when units are deployed on clean-up missions, they should be accompanied by at least two armed helicopters which can spot the criminals and better direct the officers.
Helicopters can pursue fleeing suspects and give tremendous support to those on the ground. An airborne rapid-response unit is essential in this kind of warfare.
I am, etc.,
PAUL PRINGLE
gimmemebit@yahoo.com
Florida, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
