The Editor, Sir:

Although many among us have become numb to violence, I cringed when I heard about the brutal slaying of Maureen Bennett and her daughter Damone Skyers in Torrington Park on Wednesday night.

What kind of beasts would unleash this kind of terror on a defenceless woman and her young daughter? These cowardly thugs could not have been born of women. They must have been spawned by some demons from the pit of Hell.

These endless 'reprisal' killings must cease. Until we all learn to forgive and to show love within the family and wider community, this vicious cycle will continue unabated and we will become an unhappy and bitter people.

I personally would love to see these killers exiled to a deserted island where they can all fight over turf until they perish or learn to get along in harmony. In any case, they would be removed from our midst and we would be able to enjoy a more harmonious and peaceful existence.

I appeal to inner-city parents in particular, find some activities for your boys this summer. This will reduce the possibility of them getting into trouble and the wrong company. We all know that idle minds are the Devil's workshop. Give them something meaningful to do so we won't continue to produce these criminals.

I am, etc.,

KAREN HENRY

Portmore