News of a decline in criminal activity must always be applauded.
In the latest scenario, Jamaicans are being told by the police that there has been a 32 per cent reduction in serious and violent crimes for the period January 1 to April 2, when compared to the same period last year. Just to dampen any excessive enthusiasm, the figures show that murders — traditionally used by people as the most important measure — fell by just six per cent, while shootings fell by eight per cent. We are told that those two subject areas were the only ones to show single-digit declines. Nonetheless, the trend is in the right direction.
This newspaper notes a 66 per cent reduction in serious crime in St Elizabeth which, we suspect, may well be connected to a seemingly sustained effort by the police command in that parish to maintain high visibility in the main population centers. We are expecting that the concerted drive to target lotto scamming will reap yet more dividends for lawmen and women, especially in western and central Jamaica. The daily reports of murders and criminal atrocities of all kinds mean there can be no relaxation in the drive to stop criminals. This newspaper is therefore very pleased that National Security Minister Mr Robert Montague has hit the ground running since his elevation, post the February 25 parliamentary elections. His proposal for used cars to boost police mobility may be open to debate, but it reveals fresh thinking which deserves commendation. The minister has also demonstrated a willingness to continue with programmes from the previous Administration which are perceived to be working. One such is the Unite for Change initiative of Mr Montague’s predecessor, Mr Peter Bunting, which has been credited for sparking unity against criminals in a number of communities.
All well-thinking Jamaicans recognize that the police cannot combat crime on their own. They urgently need constructive help from those whom they serve. Unfortunately, large portions of the Jamaican population are yet to fully absorb that message. For that reason, initiatives such as Unite for Change should be given as much support as possible by those in authority. We are also happy that the minister has already started a programme of community visits and town hall meetings to inform people of his thinking, but perhaps most importantly to listen to the people. “… the answers to a lot of our problems lie with the people,” said Mr Montague recently following a visit to Westmoreland. That has to be the way to go. Crucially, Mr Montague can’t be left out there on his own as he strives to rally Jamaicans against criminals. Prime Minister Andrew Holness and the entire Government must provide as much support as possible — not just materially, but crucially in terms of community organisation — in this effort to mobilize Jamaicans to support the police. An uncomfortable perception for this newspaper during the rule of Mrs Portia Simpson Miller’s People’s National Party Administration was that Mr Bunting was out on a limb, all on his own. If Jamaicans are to conquer crime, everyone should pull together as hard as they can. http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/The-police-and-new-national-security-minister-must-get-full-support_57347The police and new national security minister must get full support