Dear Editor,
What does it take for the ranks of the Lethem Police Station to take action on a report made about an alleged child molestation? On January 8, 2016, the Senior Councillor of a village (name provided) reported to the Lethem Police Station a case of an alleged child molestation. The Senior Councillor first reported the case to the Welfare Officer who sent him to the police. To this date, despite assurances from the police dating back to late January, the police have conducted no investigation. None whatever!
Editor, what does it take for the police at Lethem Police Station to take action in relation to such a serious allegation? The alleged perpetrator is a known child abuser. He is an employee of the Region. Complaints were previously made about his misconduct during his employment and of his abuse in relation to his own children. These children are forced to live with the scars of injustice, yet he is still employed with the Region and is walking around freely today. Action needs to be taken against this individual and it needs to be done swiftly. We need to make his village and surrounding villages safe and comfortable environments for children to prosper.
Editor, this is not the first time the police have failed to carry out their mandate in a timely manner. Only recently, a motorcycle belonging to the brother of my friend was stolen. The thieves were positively identified and reported to the police who did absolutely nothing. And more appalling is the fact that the criminals had the nerve to threaten innocent and hardworking people after committing the act.
If considerable attention can be given to an intoxicated adult who complained about being slapped by a presidential guard, then we can surely give some attention to a child who has undergone such immense emotional and psychological distress. Editor, this child needs justice. Rupununi needs a better justice system. Justice delayed is a threat to justice everywhere.
Yours faithfully,
Vaughn Duncan