The once peaceful communities of Portmore have become infested with criminals who are causing mayhem in the lives of hard-working people.

Portmore's population has grown at an exponential rate recently, and the communities have improved their physical infrastructure and appearance in most cases.

These developments in Portmore could be the reasons why criminal elements have crept into the neighbourhood. This has forced some people into a state of panic, frustration and despair.

Robbery, carjacking and burglary are just some of the many challenges that residents have to encounter on a daily basis. Several gun crimes have resulted in deaths in the once peaceful communities.

The question is, will everyone sit by and allow one of the largest residential areas to be overwhelmed by criminals?

Just talking about these problems will not solve them. Citizens will have to come up with practical and effective solutions to deal with crime in each community. The Government does not have the resources and expertise to effectively deal with crime nationally. Therefore, we have to find a way to address this crime problem and seek the support of the police when necessary.

Citizens of Portmore, now is the time for you to activate your citizens groups - neighbourhood watches, citizens' associations, whatever, and plan how to deal with crime in your communities. If we don't act now, then the criminals will surely get us.

I am, etc.,

FRANKLYN GILPIN

goug_23@yahoo.com

Portmore