MURDER IN MADRAS, AS HINDS FAILS TO DELIVER ON SECURITY PROMISES

By DR. RISHAD SEECHERAN,

Member of Parliament for Caroni East

THE horrible murder at Madras Road, Cunupia is a disturbing indication that the spate of homicides has extended from St. Helena, Kelly Village and surrounding communities.

The killing of a man in his vehicle in a busy intersection follows the failure of the authorities to implement the security measures that they have repeatedly promised.

I have made recurring representations for a police post, regular patrols, surveillance cameras, and other security measures in light of the mass of murders in previously safe districts.

Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds has routinely made pledges in Parliament, none of which has been delivered.

As recently, as during the parliamentary mid-year review, I pressed the Minister to initiate security measures.

At a symposium at the University of the West Indies two weeks ago, I pleaded with Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher to have a police post constructed in the community.

I also beseeched divisional police heads during two recent consultations, one at Kelly Village and the other at St. Helena.

In addition, I have regularly utilised media interviews to advise the authorities of the worsening crime situation in these former safe and security communities, and to appeal for urgent remedial action.

I again do so, since the crime epidemic is becoming more rampant and ghastly, and entire districts are being turned into criminal warzones.

I also urge residents, business people, commuters, and vendors to be extremely cautious in light of the ever-deteriorating state of affairs.

I appeal to them to take protective measures to safeguard themselves, their families, employees, and associates.