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Ambassador Alison Stone Roofe, who works in Jamaica’s Ministry of National Security, says fighting crime is most effective when people work together.
She told residents that just watching out for neighbours, reporting strange activity, and building trust helps prevent crime – even if you don’t realise it.
She spoke at a community event in Hellshire, St. Catherine, on May 10, where four new Neighbourhood Watch groups were launched: Sandhills Vista, Sandhills Bay, Hellshire Glades 1, and Upperfort A.
Ambassador Stone Roofe said one of the government’s main goals is to make communities safer by involving citizens. She mentioned the Ministry’s “Liv Gud” campaign, which encourages non-violence and supports youth and social programmes.
She called the launch of the watch groups a “critical moment” because it showed that people and police are working together for safer neighbourhoods. She said this kind of cooperation helps stop crime before it happens.
Hellshire has had problems with break-ins, robberies, and even criminal gangs hiding in the area. While police have increased patrols, the Ambassador said real success comes when police and citizens act as one team.
She warned that as Hellshire grows – with more homes and businesses – crime opportunities also grow. But this neighbourhood action shows that residents are refusing to let crime take over.
The Neighbourhood Watch Programme connects people with trained officers, gives them tailored alarm systems, and encourages better communication and teamwork. It also brings a sense of community spirit.
So far, there are 41 Neighbourhood Watch groups in St. Catherine South, with three more expected by the end of the year. Officer Paulette Baker said these groups are helping reduce crime and build trust between the police and the public.
Source: Jamaica GIS.
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