Robberies keep residents away from Palmiste Park

Fewer residents are using Palmiste Park for exercise following two robberies this week, prompting calls for increased police patrols, security cameras, and park wardens.

Speaking to Guardian Media, Harry Ragoonanan, chairman of the Palmiste Park Development Committee, recounted the latest incident.

“Yesterday, we were here with some college students visiting the cocoa estate, and a lady ran back to us saying a man tried to rob her. He asked for all the gold she had. She raised her hands and said, ‘I have no gold, all I have is Jesus,’ and he said, ‘Well, that saved you.’ I immediately called the police,” Ragoonanan said.

He condemned the slow police response, noting that officers arrived almost an hour later to take statements.

He added that the day before, two other women had been robbed.

Ragoonanan said the incidents have discouraged people from using the park.

Meanwhile, Terrence Honoré, president of the Palmiste Historical Society, emphasised the need for both maintenance and security.

“We raised upwards of $10,000 from residents to cut the grass in the park and to ensure the place was safe, especially along the verges near the walkway where single ladies and older folks walk,” he said.

Honoré called for increased security measures. “One major deterrent is to ensure the environment is well kept. There are no wardens, no surveillance, no security. We want some presence and cameras strategically located along the pathway to deter potential robbers,” he said.

He also highlighted the trauma experienced by one victim. “It’s unfortunate to hear the fear and see the visible shaking of the woman who was accosted. She veered off the paved path to walk on the public road, endangering herself. The man could have been in the bushes nearby,” Honoré said.

A retired police officer from Palmiste, speaking on condition of anonymity, urged residents to remain alert and take precautions.

“Walk in bigger groups, make sure valuables are secured elsewhere. We need this space for health. I am urging residents to stay alert and report incidents to the police. We need more presence in this area,” she said.

Palmiste residents say they will continue monitoring the park while advocating for regular maintenance and stronger security measures to ensure public safety. —RADHICA DE SILVA