The Police Federation is over-reacting to ACP Les Green's statement, where he articulated his opinion that some of our policemen who have died was as a result of their shady and corrupt dealings while they were alive. The assistant commissioner's statement, be it supported or not by the Police Federation, is factual.

The Kingston and St Andrew Action Forum (KSAAF) youth organisation, which represents over 53 marginalised communities and our community leaders and constituents have the same complaint - "it is hard to trust the police". Innocent people have died or have had to flee their communities because they cooperated with corrupt policemen and by the time they get home, the entire community, including 'wanted men', is aware of their visit to the police station and the content of their conversation with 'law-enforcement officers'.

Not all policemen who have died violently are corrupt; and it makes absolutely no sense trying to pin corruption onto a cop who is already dead. Thus, it is unnecessary to be asking ACP Les Green for proof. The underlying point is that we have 'legal gunmen' rampant among us and while we understand the federation's need to lobby on behalf of its members, it should also recognise that there are delinquents within the force. As such, leave Les Green alone. If we are going to stamp out corruption and, by extension, make Jamaica a better place, we need to start with honesty; we need to be truthful and deal with the issue at hand. Let's not oppose for opposing's sake.

I am, etc.,

LAWMAN LYNCH

President

KSAAF Youth Organisation