IATF reaches out to Laventille

Police officiers are currently involved in a bold initiative to stem spiralling crime in the Laventille district by engaging the community in several projects aimed at building trust and providing opportunities. Officers of the Inter Agency Task Force (IATF) are working with residents exposing them to several different initiatives aimed at improving community relations. One such venture is titled, Hearts and Minds, whose motto is “Changing the Hearts and Minds to Form Better Communities.”

Formed in 2004 to deal with violent and firearm-related crimes, IATF officers realised there was a communication gap between members of the police service and the public and are working hard to engage the community in crime fighting techniques. Among the outreach programmes are summer camps, sports and family days, health fairs and upcoming Christmas treats.

As part of the effort, officers also visit schools to conduct lectures aimed at offering positive options for the youths of Laventille and environs hard-hit by a recent spate of murders. As part of the IATF’s efforts, Laventille residents recently received medical treatment over a two-day period from a team of missionary doctors from Atlanta, Georgia, US at the Desperadoes Panyard.

Over 100 people benefited from the free medical care provided on September 17 and 18, by the doctors through an organisation called Missions to the World (MTW). Other agencies involved in the venture included Making Life Important, the Laventille Abuse Demand Reduction Committee; and the East Port-of-Spain Development Committee.