The Editor, Sir:

Much is being said about the peace treaty signed by several area/corner leaders in August Town a few days ago. The arguments being advanced, question the moral values and principles that allow a society to recognise "wrongdoers" as worthy participants in such an integral programme geared towards controlling and eradicating gang violence and crimes committed among thugs. The society finds it hypocritical and ludicrous that they are recognised with status and value! They are a reflection of our neglect and failures as a society, so what should we do? Round them up and shoot them?

There is no doubt that these gang leaders do have the ability to turn up the heat and turn on and off when they want. Yes, they are in control, at least of the turfs and the respective communities, where they are either feared or viewed as the "elder". We cannot get to the root of the crime problem without the assistance and cooperation of the gang leaders. This is just the plain truth we must face as a society under siege. We must try and understand the psychological make up of these gangs, their leaders and members, spend some time with them and get deep into their souls if we have to.

Organised gangs

The plain truth is that these gangs are multiplying across the entire country. Recent research shows that there are over 170 organised gangs with an approximate membership of 50 "soldiers". They are armed and dangerous. People are being murdered every day, various acts of extortion are being committed and growing across the country, not to mention the sophisticated acts of fraud being carried out in collusion with these gang leaders.

After all, these young Jamaicans were not born this way. Society has failed them too! How many of us have gone into some of these communities, sat down with some of these guys and try to understand why they do what they do? You would be pleasantly surprised to learn that the "power" that they have results from our own failures. We can take back our country and save some of these youngsters from destroying themselves. They need us as much as we need them.

I am, etc.,

CARLENE SINCLAIR

sinclair@cwjamaica.com