Open letter to Minister of National Security Minister Jack Warner: Once again the problem of house break-ins and robberies has reared its ugly head in Arima. While various types of crimes are being committed in some parts of the borough, one area, the northeast district, a stone's throw from The Dial, seems to be a target for bandits in search of easy loot. This area comprises: El Carmen, Columbus, Sorzano, Calcutta and Maingot Streets. Recently two medical doctors were robbed, one of them being robbed twice. The home of relatives of a popular sportsman was robbed and another businessman suffered serious losses, these being the most recent.
During 2010 and 2011, there were eight and ten burglaries, respectively. There have been incidents of young men on bicycles riding by and robbing women of their handbags, resulting in losses of cash, cellphones and other valuables. Evidently the vigilance that is necessary is non-existent. Residents have had to invest in expensive security systems and other devices to try and ward off these bandits. However, these efforts have proven to be futile in some instances. Several reports have been made to the relevant authorities and I hope your ministry will ensure more effective policing throughout the area. I am calling on you to put into effect combined police/army patrols throughout the neighbourhood since this area seems to be prone to this type of crime. Law-abiding citizens deserve the right to a safe and secure community.
Elma Ramsumair
Arima