Collaboration needed to fight crime successfully

Suzanne Leslie-Bailey, Contributor

On any given day and in any public opinion poll, crime ranks as a top concern for Jamaicans. Politicians, the police and business leaders have repeatedly stood on their soapboxes and chanted the usual rhetoric, about the need to stem crime; and appeal to citizens not to shield criminals - and rightfully so! However, the same appeal should be made to them! I am yet to see these same leaders expose their colleagues, henchmen and any 'big man' associated with drugs and gunrunning. Oh, how inspired our people would be if our leaders led by this selfless example!

I think some of our political leaders deem their association with thugs as a necessary evil, in order to acquire power. However, they are caught in a tangled web, as the thugs who aided their ascension to power will demand their pound of flesh.

We will have to confront the sad reality that there may be no collaboration between the political parties in this fight against crime, on the nation's behalf, as it does not serve their interests. The opposing party's criticisms or suggestions will be viewed as political opportunism by the governing party of the day, who will, predictably, be on the defensive and refuse to acknowledge the merits of any suggestions made by the opposing party.

WE ALL HAVE A ROLE

While this fight against crime must be led by our political leaders, each of us must play our part. Which one of you would be willing to expose a family member, friend or colleague, who is involved in illegal activities? As difficult as this may be, it is the stand each of us must take.

The media must not be timid in its investigative journalism. If there is a story to 'buss' regarding a politician's or other prominent person's involvement in crime, do not be bashful - 'buss' it! We do not want to just hear or read about the unemployed labourer who was arrested for stealing ackees.

It will take strong and revolutionary actions by our leaders and citizenry to stem this crime wave. I suggest that young males age 17 to 25 years, who are susceptible to criminal activities, be 'quarantined' in an institution, similar to a 'boot camp', for a period of two to three years. These institutions could offer traditional education, vocational/skills training and counselling.

Social intervention measures must be strengthened. Social workers must visit vulnerable communities regularly and offer counselling on conflict resolution, healthy family life and building self-esteem. The Church, as well as voluntary and non-governmental organisations, must also play a vital role in this area. Drastic actions must be taken to curb the freedom women and men have in bringing into the world children they are not prepared to develop into meaningful contributors to society. Quite frankly, this is a breeding ground for criminals.

TARGET THE VULNERABLE

Social intervention must be coupled with economic interventions, which must be deliberate and focused. Jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities must target the vulnerable. Importantly, the economy must grow! Companies, in restructuring, should not just consider the economic costs, but also the attendant social costs of laying off men, who may have children and spouses to support.

While the standard recommendations of ridding the police force of corrupt cops and political influence, as well as providing the police with the requisite resources to carry out their duties, are part of the solutions to crime, a drastic 'makeover' of the police is also critical. The police must be portrayed as honest, friendly and reliable. This can be done through a strong media campaign and, of course, their own actions.

The relationship between the police and inner-city residents must be strengthened. There must be a consistent programme, where the police go into inner-city communities and have regular rap sessions with the residents, on topics such as assisting in the fight against crime, effective security measures, and building relationships between the police and citizens. The police must also do regular service work and extra-curricular activities in these communities. These initiatives will assist in healing an apparent fractious relationship between the police and residents.

There needs to be more intense screening of persons seeking to be trained as police officers, as well as a longer and more detailed training programme. Continued legislative action to give the police the fighting power to tackle crime is also essential.

Music lyrics that encourage violence and modern-day lingo which connote violence do nothing to enhance an already crime-ridden society.

Let us all unite in this fight against crime and rescue our beloved country, Jamaica.

Suzanne Leslie-Bailey is former research coordinator to Bruce Golding. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com and svclb@msn.com.