Allow Police to do their jobs – ERC on murder of Berbice teens

…urges Guyanese not to fuel tension

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has condemned the murder of teens Joel and Isaiah Henry at Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice, over the weekend and called for swift action by the police to apprehend those responsible for the heinous crime. It is also pleading with Guyanese, especially those residing in the West Coast Berbice and nearby communities, to remain calm and allow the police to do their work. The ERC said that the law must take its course and appealed to Guyanese to desist from any activity which can contribute to unnecessary tension as it is hopeful that those responsible will be brought to justice.
“The Commission also strongly urges leaders, both nationally and at the community levels, to demonstrate responsible behaviour and to not use the pain of this tragedy to heighten racial tension. The ERC extends condolences to the relatives and friends of the young men whose lives were cut short in a heinous manner,” ERC said in a statement.
It added that it remains committed entirely, which it is fully empowered to do, to taking whatever course of action it deems necessary to assist in the de-escalation of tensions and the mending of fractured relations among citizens. The ERC reiterated that investigations by the police must first take precedence before the ERC acts to defuse any unwanted developments resulting from the tragic occurrences a few days ago.