The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Recent information published in the media and statements made by the Hon Prime Minister makes it appear that the Commissioner of Police and his executive management team are being blamed for the murder rate in our country.

A statement made by the Prime Minister in 2013 about the Police and his Legacy. A statement reportedly made by the Commissioner concerning an offer made to him to accept a position overseas in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has not been challenged by the Commissioner.

The most recent statement made by the Prime Minister in his address last weekend when he reportedly said the Commissioner of Police and his colleagues have to understand that the political directorate has a stake in what is taking place.

It appears, that the Commissioner of Police and his executive team will be the scapegoats to be blamed for the high murder rate.

It also appears that the replacing of the Commissioner of Police and possibly some members of his executive is being considered. Politicians in the past have replaced Sir Albert Miller, which was due to his friendship with certain UBP politicians, Mr BK Bonamy whose legacy includes higher education for policemen and eradicating corruption in the Police service, Mr Paul Farquharson, who restored morale and immensely improved the environment in which policemen worked and relaxed, the conditions of service and improved administration was offered Mr Farquharson and he accepted an overseas post in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

There is information that the post of Commissioner may be filled by a foreign person. Such appointments were dismal failures in some Caribbean countries and cost those countries a lot of money in wages and payments for breach of contracts.

Our Police Force has been performing with courage and distinction here. The murder rate is high. The detection of murder is high. There has been drops in other categories of crime. Arrests for violent crimes, drugs and guns have been numerous. Our Courts are unable to deal with the large numbers of cases promptly and the Prison is overflowing.

The Police Force continues to be efficient, effective and courageous. This Commissioner has been very active in the field, exposing himself to the dangers out there. He has been exceptional as a public relations officer and very open in meetings with the public. While he must condescend to most of the wishes of the government of the day, he has demonstrated that maintaining law and order must take priority. He has been handicapped by the delay in getting cases completed in the Courts and the need to grant bail to those persons held for long periods. There also appears to be the leniency displayed in the sentencing of criminals.

The public must stand with the Commissioner and show their support. Police Officers, in particular the Police Staff Association, must demonstrate its loyalty and full support for the Commissioner. The Former Police Officers Association must get involved and show support for the Commissioner. The media must also demonstrate its support for this honest, hardworking and courageous man, who is leading an organisation that has made us proud over the many years and will continue to do so if left untainted by political interference.

POLICE SUPPORTER

Nassau,

January 7, 2015.