Extortion days done

The Editor, Sir:

I heartily congratulate our police officers and soldiers who have lawfully been carrying out their duties in our beautiful island of Jamaica! Do you know how much relief it was to drive on Pechon Street and see the former sign of '$100 Parking' flat on its face?

I accompanied my friend downtown Kingston two Fridays ago and she was prepared to pay to park in the open lot sandwiched by West and Pechon streets. She had previously paid $100 to park in that area on a regular basis and so thought that Friday would be no different. She, however, noticed the absence of the collectors. When we were ready to leave the premises, another patron who was also wondering where the 'collectors' were spotted them across Barry Street, where fish is sold. Apparently these well-known collectors were still taking their time to solicit a fee from the drivers when the coast appeared clear of police.

Do not give in

When we attempted to leave, a collector approached our vehicle with his head down pretending to use a gadget in his hand and hailed us. My friend stopped to engage the collector; 'You still collecting?' I told her to continue driving because those extortion days were over! Part of the problem is the citizens who continue to feed these illegal collections. We need to take a stand and refuse to give in. She drove off and he returned to Barry Street with no argument.

I thank God for the military operations which have now put a dent into those kinds of criminal acts. I hope the extortion of bus drivers/conductors at Parade and along the routes have also been thwarted.

Another problem in the process - corrupt police and politicians. They also need to clean up their act. Most of the extortionists are known to them. Since the minister of national security claims to have the resources necessary to stop the crime, I implore him to use them.

I am, etc.,

ELAINE WILLIAMS

pryncessanna@hotmail.com