Dear Editor,

Among the notices at church last Sunday, was an item informing of an attack on a member who was out jogging. This attack was carried out by a machete-wielding man who appeared to be of unsound mind. It resulted in the victim receiving some 20 stitches to the head.

Quite frequently we see these apparently mentally challenged persons walking around with various implements including machetes, bits of iron and other items that can be of extreme danger to the unsuspecting citizen going about their normal lawful business. Information gleaned is that these are oftentimes weapons of defence from attacks by uncaring persons in the society who would not be classified as mentally unstable. But is this so?

However, the reality is these dangerous implements in the hands of the insane cannot be allowed in a sane society. What must be a violation of the law is being done in plain view of the police, whose aim is to protect the citizens. The question is how do we treat the insane and homeless on our streets across the nation? What can be done to a person who parades totally nude or masturbates openly passing schools and other public spaces . For years we have tolerated similar indecent exposure, masquerading as art in the Fern Gully, and despite several utterances, it still exists

If there is a policy in place as to the approach to be taken dealing with the insane, then it needs to be acted on. If there is none, it is desperately needed. In our Kiwanis clubs street people feeding programmes, there is evidence that more persons are taking to the streets. Many of them suffer some depression with a tendency to lash out at any time. This poses additional stress as we go about our daily business. To whom do we turn to have these dangerous persons removed from our streets, not just physically removed but to a place where their psychological needs can be addressed?

We thank God for sparing our sister’s life and pray for her speedy and complete healing. The streets are indeed dangerous.

Ralston Nunes

Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor

Division 23 East

ralstonnunes@gmail.com