Gov’t to Spare No Effort in Fighting Crime – PM

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness says the Government will be sparing no effort in the fight against crime and violence in the country.

He was speaking in an interview with JIS News, during a tour of sections of St. James, including a visit to the Charles Gordon Market on April 23, where three persons were killed on Friday, April 22.

During the tour he also met with family members, who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.

“It really saddens my heart each time I have to speak to the loved ones of those who have been murdered. It gives you a sense of deep sadness,” he stated.

Mr. Holness said the Government remains resolute that the issue of crime must be addressed, and will be dealt with using two parallel strategies.

“Clearly the Police have operational responsibilities and we continue to support them with resources in this regard. We have a platform to appeal to the people who live in these communities, that violence and murders are not the only way to resolve conflicts,” he stated.

“We have to appeal to the conscience of people…. that they too have a role to play in bringing under control this scourge that has plagued our nation for such a long time,” he added.

Mr. Holness also mentioned that counseling and moral supported will be provided to the grieving relatives.

“The sad situation is that the owner of the shop that was killed, he died leaving three children-10, 12 and 14. I don’t know what we can explain…say to those children, but we are going to embrace them…and support them as much as we can …. (and) that the necessary resources for counseling and moral support is brought to surround that family,” the Prime Minister stated.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for West Central St. James, Marlene Malahoo Forte who was also on the tour, expressed sadness at the loss of the three lives.

“I am very saddened by the murders that took place in the constituency…at the market and I really want to make an appeal to citizens-you know parties who are in disputes…disputes do not have to lead to death and violence and we are going to ask for the cooperation. If people need help…let us know,” Mrs. Malahoo Forte said.

The Attorney General is also asking members of the public, who may have seen what took place during the incident, to give the information to the Police, in order to have the situation resolved as soon as possible.