We must condemn the Albion protesters resort to violence, both against innocent civilians and the Police. While we identify and sympathize with their grievances, and agree with their demands for security and protection, we disagree with their violence and disrespect for the law.

We hope the loss of life will not deter them from their rightful quest to have security of their person and property, but will instead strengthen their resolve to fight injustice. We hope the protests will continue and grow, until their security is ensured. But all protests must be done peacefully, with respect for law enforcement, and without harassment to others. To do otherwise is to place both the government and the Police in awkward positions, and only strengthen the common victimizers.

We abhor the shooting. Why did the Commissioner of Police not immediately dispatch trained riot police at the first sign of trouble? Why did he leave in control, the same Police personnel that the protesters were complaining about? Above all, why did they shoot to kill. Is it because they were Indians and not Blacks? Is it because this protest was organized by ROAR? Is this what we can expect when “push becomes shove”? Whatever  the answer, maybe it is time for a new Commissioner of Police, one who can infuse new solutions to old problems.

We are disappointed in the failure of the PPP to recognize and address the security problem of the Indian population. We are disappointed that Indians have to work hard during the day, and lose sleep during the nights doing “Police” work. We are disappointed Indians have only sticks and cutlasses to protect themselves against violent bandits armed with automatic weapons. We hope the PPP will now move swiftly to rectify this problem, before any further loss of life.

We are also disappointed the Minister of Home Affairs, and not the President, made the visit to the area? Is it because the protest was organized by ROAR? The PPP must provide answers and solutions NOW.

Finally, while ROAR must be credited for organizing the protest to highlight the Indian security problem, it must also bear full responsibility for the violent behaviour of the protesters. It must understand protests must be organized peacefully, and ensure there is no recurrence of what happened at Albion.