THE EDITOR, Sir:

MOST OF the criminals affecting us are themselves victims of a hardcore era that needs to be softened by enforcing the zero tolerance factor. This, however, cannot be done by only the police and army.

Every well-thinking Jamaican must decide that they are going to take the bull by the horn. The people must start a programme to enlighten everyone interested that being an 'informer' is good and the only way to help our armed forces and the country. If one is driving behind a bus or car or whatever and sees litter being thrown from the vehicle, then take tag numbers and call the authorities. If someone has committed a crime and is ducking behind the eyesore zinc fence, someone should call the police. In other words, you have to be your brother's keeper.

It is time also for the women who secure these criminals and wash their bloody clothes, to be put behind bars. Only drastic measures will work. It is devastating for the country to be held at ransom while the gallows in Spanish Town gets rusty.

I am, etc.,

J. WILSON

jean_wil@msn.com

Asheville, NC

Via Go-Jamaica