The arrest of a young man for alleged arson during the August 4 disturbances in Dutch Quarter (see related story) sends an important message. Several cars, including a police vehicle, were set on fire.
Although innocent until proven guilty, it seems ironic that the suspect had attended a related emergency meeting at the office of caretaker Justice Minister Lyndon Lewis (NOW) reportedly facilitated by Member of Parliament Omar Ottley (UP). He was even photographed smiling and shaking hands with Police Chief Carl John.
No matter how well-intended those talks had no doubt been, the fact remains that major offences were committed, including shooting at authorities. An effort was made in subsequent days to restore calm in the community, among other ways by asking GEBE not to cut power there at night when load-shedding, but such serious actions should still have consequences.
It is not just about punishing culprits or even setting an example. The public needs to be sure that justice is indeed blind and applied evenly, not according to what may be convenient, less controversial or even politically correct.
And as they say: if you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.
