Police must regain trust

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE SECURITY forces in the past few weeks have demonstrated strong resolve in facing the criminal elements who challenged the sovereignty of our Government. And they are to be commended. There continues to be a lot of dialogue on how to best address the criminal and violent atmosphere that has become the norm.

Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington and other top brass officers must look at the security forces, specifically the police. Trust in our police force is non-existent - and understandably so - but unless it is restored, the current problems we face with regard to security will be never-ending.

community policing

We need to take a look at community policing, where stakeholders such as local government, civic and business leaders, public and private agencies, residents, churches, schools and hospitals are all actively involved in fighting crime. The police and communities would thus become partners. This is highly impossible if trust is not regained. As long as people feel that their personal safety is jeopardised by collaborating with law enforcement they will not enter into partnership.

If we really are committed to a better future, our law-enforcement leaders must hold their members to a higher standard and re-evaluate current policing strategy.

I am, etc.,

David Sangster

david.sangster2@gmail.com