Dear Editor,
Please let me say from the beginning that I am no expert on law enforcement, but would like to think that I have a reasonable amount of common sense.
I do not live in close proximity to any of the major public roads, but know persons who do, and from whom I have heard persistent reports of vehicular traffic, traversing these roadways, “outside of the curfew hours”, between 6pm and 6am.
I have read reports of vehicular accidents occurring during these hours of curfew and only yesterday, read a report of such a “hit and run” accident resulting in the death of a person. The victim had just celebrated his birthday, had arguments with this wife and others and was allegedly not on his best behaviour. Even if that were so, it is no reason for his life to be snuffed out in that manner.
My plea is that the police set up road blocks, possibly at intervals at five/ ten miles on the major roads, in all three counties, as well as in Georgetown, at strategic points, within an hour of the curfew starting and ending (7pm and 5am).
These road blocks can be manned by one policeman and one or two Community/neighbourhood police person(s), (where these exist) or, in their absence, by a member of the RDC/NDC.
I would also hope that systems be instituted to avoid “enhancements” being “worked out” to avoid prosecutions.
Should these attempts still not work, sterner measures can be attempted.
Naturally, persons deemed to be essential workers, like medical personnel on duty, or emergency situations (persons being taken to and from medical facilities) can be exempted.
Another situation which caused me to be doubtful if strict adherence and enforcement is being paid to the curfew is the loud music from known “hang out” bars, wash bays and even houses and places of entertainment. Many such places are in close proximity to police stations and if residents can “enjoy” the sounds, a mile away, surely the police at these stations do so too.
I strongly urge those responsible to consider these suggestions and observations, in order to avoid “blame” for the rise in COVID-19 cases being unfairly thrown at them.
Yours faithfully,
H N Nawbatt