Suriname’s Vice President Ronnie Brunswijk has warned that the government “will not allow criminals to take over the country” calling for stronger action from law enforcement agencies to stem the rise in criminal activities in the Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country.
Brunswijk, flanked by the Justice and Police Minister, Kenneth Amoksi, Defence Minister Krishna Mathoera, Commander Werner Kioe A. Sen and acting Chief of Police, Ruben Kensen, warned that the authorities will be implementing more roadblocks as well as adopt a zero tolerance to crime.
“Strong action, lock those people up,” Brunswijk told the police, adding that domestic violence will also be addressed.
Ronnie Brunswijk said crime is a concern for the government and perpetrators must be caught and brought to justice.
“Those criminals also need to know that wherever they are we are going to get them, trace them, arrest them. In the past people just robbed, but now they shoot people. You are not safe in your own house,” the vice president said, noting that tough action will be taken dismissing complaints of alleged police brutality.
“But when they shoot those people, everyone’s watching. But starting today on behalf of the president, I want increased surveillance, more police officers visible. And crack down on the criminals. We’re worried. We can do it. Don’t let criminals do whatever they want in the country,” Brunswijk said.
He told reporters that he is very emotional about the situation, adding “it cannot be the case that you work hard for your money and then get robbed. We will no longer accept that”.
Amoksi said the police are going “to act hard without regard to persons. It’s enough. We’ve had drive by shootings, murders, robberies. We’re only losing Surinamese (people).
“Police, I call on you. We must control the streets, protect the people in their homes and all other public places,” Amoksi said, adding that the police bike unit must become active again, and police being more active near schools.
The police and justice minister said domestic violence is also getting more attention, especially in the security services.
“There are plenty of cases where partners have been shot with service weapons,” Amoksi said, noting it may be time to leave service weapons at work after duty.
CMC/
