Dear Editor,
This message is for the Head of State, Min of Home Affairs and Heads of Security in Guyana.
It was the most shocking bit of news I had to listen to on the BBC broadcast and read in the daily newspapers, about the killings that took place recently. The pictures in Kaieteur News showed how gruesome the acts were in Lusignan and Bartica. I blame the above authorities for allowing these criminals to get the upper hand.
The criminals have graduated from a simple choke and rob to robbery and killing, kick down the door, rob and terrorize people to threatening security, government and massacre. These people are not afraid of the law, nor the joint services. They have the same type or more sophisticated weapons that give them the power. In addition they have increased their stash with those from Bartica Police Station.
Another thirteen innocent people have loss their lives, the next strike may be in Georgetown. More police officers must work by night. Address the manner in which the Police stations are operated. These crimes are taking place in the nights, a few officers at work cannot handle the reports and response at the same time. The criminals are aware of how lax the policies are, how limited the human resources stations are at the stations. There are frequent complaints from citizens about the police responses eg no officer to send out, no vehicle present. Some of these criminals have military experience, they are aware of the manner in which police and business operations are carried out.
I would like to suggest that the Head of State declare a state of emergency for about one week or longer if necessary. All citizens must be off the streets before nightfall. If wages or income are lost as a result, the government must pay the workers. Deploy the military in full force to the Buxton and neighbouring villages. Block off the neighbourhoods and search house to house for all criminals regardless of gender. At the same time the operation must be carried out on the East Bank area e.g Agricola, Grove and wherever needed. Any person that ventures into the streets during this time should be shot or arrested. Get the message over strongly to the criminals and citizens.
Take on the fight, the end result will be a win win or lose lose. People have to be safe in their homes and work places. Safe and free to travel. Are Guyanese now prisoners in their own homes. How am I to consider coming home on vacation?
I would like to read and hear that all political parties come forward with a plan to work with the Government and Security to help combat this situation. The next strike may be worse. This gang leader is sending more threats or warnings as may be. I urge you to act now.
Yours faithfully,
(name and address supplied)
