THE PROFESSIONAL and technical competence with which two motorcyclists assassinated Mr. Ranil Senaka Wijesekera on October 9, as he stopped his jeep at the traffic lights at West King's House and Waterloo Roads, Kingston, was chilling; frightening even.
It was a stark, jolting reminder of how the ruthless Colombian sicarios (Spanish for hired gunmen, paid assassins) wreak terror on those who oppose drug trafficking in their country.
Also, it is a riveting example of the sophisticated organisation of the criminality that confronts us. It tells us that for the Jamaica Constabulary, it can't be business as usual. The traditional strong arm of the law has to be complemented by a more cerebral, analytical approach, backed by intelligence - the basic gathering of information which still remains the bedrock of sound detective work.
This updated level of police competence is needed to tackle not only contract murder but also the grave questions arising from the current crisis of confidence. From what has been reported thus far the Force cannot be expected to investigate itself with any credibility. The role of the DPP is therefore critical because the constitution gives him specified powers and independence of action.
This was alluded to by the Prime Minister in his statement on the situation last Thursday. Mr. Patterson was careful to avoid the perception that he was instructing the DPP to act, which he does not have the power to do, as some media reports seemed to suggest. Indeed in stating that the DPP "will be at liberty to engage such personnel and expertise" as required we interpret to mean that the relevant resources will be made available if needed.
It is vital that full public confidence in the integrity of the Police Force be restored without delay. If radical house-cleaning is required, so be it.
The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner.
