Police initiatives must be supported

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,
Two cases, now in the courts, say to me that our police officers have to up the ante. It is time the law enforcers be more proactive, get a feel of the community, and make criminals fearful.
Also, I call for their support at every level.
I first recall the 22-year-old, who was refused bail, for being charged with possession of an unlicensed gun and ammunition. This man pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleges that he was in possession of a 9mm pistol and 11 rounds of matching ammunition.
Police made the successful search based on gunshot-like explosion, and thus the charge. Whether or not, the shot came from this gun, is inconsequential. If this has been so, then matters would have been even more incriminating.
So, as for the defendant’s lawyer’s putting up such a case, it is most vacuous – the man was charged for possession and that is more than enough to remand him.
It stands to reason, that possessors unlicensed firearms have evil intentions. These illegal weapons are not for self preservation.
Recently, too many shootings have been taking place and it is time overdue for some serious action. This arrest probably averted a murder.
The second case is really the flip side to this: the police had no gun and was stabbed. The details reveal that the officer was on patrol, about 00: 30h in the market’s vegetable section. He then spotted someone on the roof of a stall. Upon investigating, the bandit jumped off the roof and a scuffle took place, resulting in the officer being stabbed by the fugitive.
The constable explained that he did not retaliate because he did not have a weapon. Good choice on the day, but poor strategy from his superiors at the constabulary. Is it really true that constables on day duties have weapons, while nightshift ones are weapon-less? If so, then this must be avoided.
I think that no police officer should make rounds without a gun.
I feel a slight consolation that the injured officer explained that he would be able to identify his attacker if he sees him. I am sure people around the market know him. I call on all Guyanese to help the police by identifying criminal elements.

Yours sincerely,
Sahodra Deosaran

Related posts