Commentary

Protection requested

'TENSION INCREASES IN Jones Town', an article in yesterday's STAR, spoke of the residents' need for the police in the area. According to the article there has been an ongoing gang-related war in the area for over a year, with brief periods of peace.

The matter is so riveting that residents are afraid to admit they are living in fear. Some, however, are brave enough to admit that their children are not safe and that the violence affects their attendance at work.

One man says he cannot sleep at nights because gunshots ring out from 11p.m. to 4 a.m.

While it is sad that police officers need to guard an area like a 'Backra Massa' on a slave plantation, it is enlightening to see that the residents are commending the police.

This is a nice change as the cops are always under fire. Whether from gunmen or the public, they need always be on the defence. Often in the hot seat with harsh criticisms about the way they do their job, things have taken a delightful turn in this case.

The residents are saying they need the officers. "When the police is around we get a little rest, but apart from that, we can't sleep," said one resident.

Let's hope that this relationship continues and the peace is long lived. In the meantime, hats off to the dedicated and brave officers who risk their lives every day.