By VERSHONNA PRATT

BAHAMAS Against Crime executive director the Rev CB Moss said yesterday that young people are both the cause and the solution to the escalating crime problem.

Speaking at a press conference at Yoruba Home, Mr Moss said youth need to be more actively involved in the fight against crime

"Young people are at the heart of the problem and should be at the heart of the solution.

"In the face of this intolerable situation, Bahamas Against Crime (BAC) is again calling for strong, swift, and focused action in all areas if the nation is to be spared further suffering and grief," he said.

"It is imperative therefore that all sectors of the society step up to the plate NOW. BAC will be intensifying its efforts to mobilise Bahamians to focus on the battle against crime with more urgency and resolve.

"Bahamians should not be lulled into complacency because no murders have been officially recorded in the last week.

"Even with the best effort it's going to be a long while before a tolerable level of crime will be reached."

Mr Moss said BAC is out in full force to warn Bahamians about the climbing rate of crime.

He said crime is viewed as a police and government problem, when it really is about the community.

In this vein, Mr Moss said BAC will expand and strengthen existing programmes as well as introduce new initiatives.

Planned initiatives include promoting socialisation among young people, community programmes, and inviting high school students to empowerment activities.

Mr Moss also praised the new government for its focus on crime and the Urban Renewal Programme.