Public concerned about Carnival violence

The shooting death of Odinga Collins last Saturday has brought into focus a trend that seems to be growing, and which seems to be breeding fear in persons wishing to enjoy themselves this Carnival.

A number of concerned persons have voiced their concerns, saying that they hope the violence does not spill over into the June 29th to July 10th festivities.{{more}}

Over the years, a number of these killings, described by some as public executions were high profile.

In 2000, in front of thousands of revelers at a bar in Middle Street, Kingstown, Jason ‘Leprechaun’ Edwards died after being stabbed in the stomach by a number of assailants.

And as recently as 2004, while dancing with a young lady on the popular hang out ‘Shipwreck’, 22-year-old Antonio ‘Bogo’ Cuffy was shot and killed.

These killings, were by all reports, not related to carnival activities, but they had a negative effect on the celebrations for most persons.

But acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Lenroy Brewster has a message for these persons who might be thinking of committing criminal activity under the cover of the festivities.

Brewster stated that these individuals, whom he regards as members of ‘Loosely Organized Gangs,’ would be sought out and arrested as long as information reaches the police of plans to commit, or involvement in illegal acts.

Brewster said that the police would be working closely with the courts, in an attempt to keep them off the streets and away from the carnival festivities.

He further said that peaceful and well intentioned revelers can be rest assured, that the police will do everything in their power to maintain safety.(JJ)