THE EDITOR, Sir:
On July 13 orders came from the members of the 'One Order' gang' operating in Spanish Town that all businesses must be closed down as a mark of respect to the gang leader who was killed in Kingston.
The town's business closed, market vendors had to leave all their produce and go back home, taxi services halted and the entire town's activities came to a halt. Compliance with these orders was observed out of fear for lives and property and the inability of the security forces to serve, protect and reassure the citizens. Who is really in charge?
The frequent outburst of criminal activities in Spanish Town involving gang warfare, hold-ups, reprisal killings, break-ins and rape among others and the chronicle of these events since the start of the year is very frightening and worrying. The pressure and stress associated with operating a business in Spanish Town makes it extraordinarily difficult to cope.
The residents of Spanish Town also express these concerns.
The questions that frequently come to mind are:
What contribution can these lawless elements make to nation-building when they destroy business this way?
How can they expect the business community to create jobs and opportunities to improve their economic situation and social standing?
Are these persons getting support and protection for the power they exercise in these acts of criminality?
Can the security forces really manage and take control?
Will the security forces be pro-active and avoid another lockdown of the town on the day of the funeral?
One thing is sure and that is, the business community and the residents of Spanish Town and its environs are totally frustrated, tired and fed up with the wave of criminality and violence taking place from time to time.
We too as a people are entitled to a good standard of living and to be free and fair and free from fear.
The St. Catherine Chamber of Commerce & Industry endorses another initiative of the recently launched Crime Prevention Programme and would encourage all stakeholders to galvanise all efforts to ensure its success.
Time for action is now. We must demonstrate that the lawful and legal authority is in charge.
I am, etc.,
A CONCERNED BUSINESS OPERATOR
