THE Ministry of Home Affairs successfully organised and ran off last Sunday a sporting activity at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) Ground in support of its fight against crime and violence.

The major sport event was organised involving various stakeholders.

The football events attracted a women’s match between the Joint Services and Linden, and the main event – two male teams comprising professional players, politicians, diplomats, business persons, ex-gang members, artists, joint services and civil society.

The theme of the activity was ‘No to Crime, Yes to Law and Order. An opening ceremony which preceded the commencement of the two matches included brief remarks from the Director of Sport Mr Neil Kumar, Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Clement Rohee and the Prime Minister Hon. Samuel Hinds.

The players and all present were advised that the fight against crime and violence must not be seen as the responsibility of the security forces only.

Instead, all are involved in the detection, prevention and the fight against crime and violence. Hence, it is against this background that the matches were organised.

The event which was alcohol-free was watched by hundreds of people from Linden along with scores of people from Georgetown and East Bank Demerara.

Adequate security and medical facilities were provided during the entire event.

Trophies and medals were presented to the participating teams for their commitment and involvement towards the event.

Sports gear were also given to individuals and clubs.

In the women’s game Linden drubbed the Joint Services 5-0 behind  a double by Stacy Hoyte in the 4th and 7th minutes with the others being netted by Nikki Smith in the 10th, Jamella Smith in the 24th and Akila Castello in the 30th minutes of the game.

In the men’s game, the B side emerged victors over their A team counterparts by a 2-1 sudden-death score-line after regulation time, 1-1, and 4-4 at the end of the five mandatory penalty kicks.

There were several banners around the ground sending clear messages against Violence and Crime. Minister Clement Rohee was quick to thank his Ministry Officials and other sponsors.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who is highly respected as a Lindener applauded the activity and he was on hand to present the prizes and trophies.