THE EDITOR, Sir:I HAVE always been an admirer of Supt. Newton Amos in terms of his approach to his work. However, I was grossly alarmed at the comments attributed to him in The Gleaner of 13th February 2002 captioned, "Mobay detentions irks judge, lawyers".
Since his arrival in St. James Supt. Amos has made an effort to sensitise the citizens of depressed communities on their rights under law. After reading The Gleaner's piece on the story one can't help but question the sincerity of such a gesture, was it mere public relations?
It was reported that Supt. Amos when asked about the matter of detaining suspects beyond the legally prescribed 48 hours he responded, "we are doing what we are supposed to do, they will remain in custody until identifications parades are held". May I remind the gentleman that he is supposed to abide by the law in the execution of his duties. May I also remind Supt. Amos that the court ruled that it is unconstitutional to hold anyone at the Governor General's pleasure more so at Supt. Amos' pleasure.
The comments attributed to Supt. Amos smacks of arrogance and contempt for the law and must be condemned by his superiors and all well-thinking Jamaicans.
The practice by the security force to arrest first and investigate after has resulted in the arbitrary and indefinite detention of poor Jamaicans. This is in clear violation of their fundamental rights and the law. The unfortunate thing is, they continue to do it with impunity, a clear indictment on the leadership of the force and government.
I commend Resident Magistrate Paulette Williams and attorney-at-law Dalton Reid for standing up in defence of justice and the poor.
I am, etc.,
DENNIS MEADOWS
compuwest@iname.com
Montego Bay
St. James
Via Go-Jamaica
