|
The Commissioner of Police
Mr. Winston Felix, DSM
Police Headquarters,
Eve Leary,
Georgetown.
Dear Sir,
On behalf of the Executive and members of the Alliance For Change, I bring you belated New Year’s Greetings and a pledge of support for your work in the months ahead. This year will test the mettle and character of most of us and we have every confidence that you, your officers and ranks, will discharge your duties in the highest professional manner.
Our particular purpose for writing is to address the issue of the besieging of Fort Island, Essequibo River on December, 23, 2005, and the horrific crimes which were committed there. No doubt you are familiar with this event. Having visited the island recently, we undertook to bring to your attention the following issues on behalf of victims and members of the community:
Residents remain traumatized and insufficiently advised as to the state of the investigation and prosecution of the perpetrator apprehended thus far. There needs to be an update as to the progress of the investigation. We suggest for your consideration, that a team visits the island on a confidence building exercise.
- Articles recovered to date including, outboard motors and cell phones, have not been returned and are desperately needed. We suggest that you consider issuing an instruction that the articles be returned forthwith, after being photographed and the necessary markings placed thereon.
- That consideration is given to the placement of an outpost on the Island, or for an increase in river patrols to assure the residents that there is a measure of security in place. A complaint was made that on the night of the incident a call placed to the Parika Police Station revealed that only one rank was on duty and he expressed helplessness at being able to respond. Fort Island houses historical structures and sites which have been declared national monuments. A police presence on the island would be very reassuring to tourists and residents alike.
- That the idea of a community policing group be given serious consideration including, assistance in its formation and training of members.
- Those suitable members of the community are identified for the granting of firearm licences. It is our information that some members have already forwarded applications.
We trust that you will interpret these issues raised in the helpful context in which they are intended. We offer our assistance in any way that you may find useful for addressing them, or any other matters that may arise.
Yours Respectfully,
Mr. Raphael Trotman
Alliance For Change
|
|
