Crime only pays for a short time

Fri, Jul 18, 2014

Business executive Jimmie Forde, who last weekend went through a most horrible experience at the hands of three gunmen, has reached out to his attackers and other young people, advising them that a life of crime cannot pay.{{more}}

SEARCHLIGHT interviewed Forde yesterday (see story on the back page), and with a most magnanimous spirit, he advised his abductors to turn from a life of crime as there are better ways to live one’s life. Mr. Forde could have been vengeful and bitter after his nightmare, but his attitude demonstrates maturity and wisdom.

We add our voice to Mr. Forde’s, even though more than likely, those caught up in a life of criminality would not be favorably disposed to taking advice from either Mr. Forde or SEARCHLIGHT.

What might catch their attention though, is the numbers of men, mostly young, who have been gunned down over the past few weeks. Word on the street is that the murders are drug related (see story on back page). It is also being said that there exists a list of persons to be executed by whomever is responsible for the killings, and the carnage will not stop until everyone on the list has been wiped off. If this theory about these murders is correct, it is indeed a dire situation.

Our young people, especially our young men, need to take a careful look at the lives being lived by the crime bosses they look up to. Yes, those at the top of the crime chain have material things in abundance, but how long does the wealth last and what quality of life do they really enjoy? Can they walk the villages and towns of this country without fear? Once inside, can one really extricate one’s self from criminal gangs without fear of reprisal?

In any event, what are the chances of rising to the top of the heap and what does that person have to do to stay there? Relatives, friends and co-workers lives are put at risk, for when rivals want to take someone out, they do not care how much collateral damage is incurred along the way.

A person has a much greater probability of achieving success through education and acquisition of marketable skills than any other available path. Look around – there are countless examples of people in this society who have pulled themselves out of indigence through toil and earnest effort. Their material acquisitions may be modest, but the honour and peace of mind that comes with honest labour is invaluable.