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🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago /Crime & Justice

Choosing courage over fear

From Trinidad Express · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Under investigation
  • The author's vehicles were set on fire, an act they believe may be linked to their critical writings.
  • Despite the traumatic experience, the author refuses to be silenced and will continue to write, choosing courage over fear.
  • They express gratitude to neighbors, friends, law enforcement, and the fire service for their support and commend the selfless devotion of officers.

The author recounts waking to the smell of burning plastic and the sound of crackling fire, only to discover their three vehicles engulfed in flames. Neighbors alerted the Fire Service and police, but the vehicles were a total loss. This incident, which occurred around 2:30 a.m., has left the author shaken but resolute.

I refuse to cower in fear. I will not allow the criminals of this country to have innocent, hard-working, right-minded citizens bar themselves in cages and live in fear of being targeted because of their success.

— Nigel SeenathsinghThe author's defiant stance against intimidation following the arson attack.

Despite advice from friends to cease writing due to potentially ruffling feathers, leave social media, or face motives of envy or jealousy, the author firmly refuses to "cower in fear." They express a determination not to let criminals intimidate hardworking, right-minded citizens into living in fear of being targeted for their success. The author emphasizes the need for people to stand by, protect, and comfort one another.

We as a people have to stand by each other, protect each other, and provide care and comfort to each other.

— Nigel SeenathsinghAn appeal for community solidarity in the face of crime.

This marks the author's first experience as a victim of crime, stating they have no known enemies or involvement in illegal activities. They criticize those who use such situations for victim-blaming. The author extends personal thanks to ACP Richard Smith and members of the San Fernando CID and Fire Service for their "impeccable efforts," noting that this traumatic experience has provided a broader appreciation for the selfless devotion of these officers.

This traumatic experience has given me a wider view of the selfless devotion of these officers. They are the ones awake when we are asleep, and they deserve all of the assistance, support and prayers we can offer.

— Nigel SeenathsinghExpressing appreciation for the work of law enforcement and emergency services.

Gratitude is also expressed towards neighbors, friends, and social media followers for their outpouring of love and support. Special recognition is given to Ian Alleyne for his service. The author intends to continue updating the nation on the situation, hoping to shed light on the impact of crime on victims and the challenges faced by those in protective services. They urge caution but encourage citizens not to be afraid to enjoy life and liberties, referencing Psalm 55:22 for spiritual sustenance.

Be cautious, Trinidad and Tobago, but don’t be afraid to enjoy life and liberties that our country provides.

— Nigel SeenathsinghA concluding message of resilience and continued engagement with life.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Trinidad Express. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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