The plea came at a meeting organised by community elders and the Police with some of the young men involved in recent violence.

A simple "soul'' handshake from Police Commissioner Jean-Jacques Lemay and a thank you from a young man symbolised that where once suspicion reigned, there is now a chance for understanding.

While Policemen from the Emergency Response Unit were at the CedarBridge Academy, it was Commissioner Lemay and several senior officers who were present in the room talking with the young men for more than three hours.

The media was not allowed in until the meeting was over and were under very strict guidelines about protecting the young men's identities.

One of the mediators, Pastor Goodwin Smith said: "This tonight was very very, very positive.

"I'm not here representing the church but as a concerned citizen.

"These were young men that wanted to bring some peace.

"Some of the things I heard may have made me sad and they are passionate about what they have gone through,'' he added. "Very serious things. But they have a very Christian attitude toward forgiveness.

"They are willing to talk to the others about their concern for a better Bermuda for their children.

"This has been a very good exercise.

"I want to say to those who are thinking about coming but didn't, they don't have to be afraid. Trust us and we will work it out.'' Gary Robinson, who has worked behind the scenes to bring all of the warring groups together, said: "I'm very encouraged. This has been very frank and honest and they desire peace.

"I would also like to ask those that have not attended to come to talk so that we can have a lasting and amicable peace.'' One young man summed up the meeting: "I want them all to come out as Bermudians. Come out and see what happens.

"This is the first time I have ever worked with the Police,'' he added.

"I urge them to come out and say what they have to say. I just want to plea to them for peace.'' Both the young man and others present said they would take their message to others from their neighbourhoods in an effort to stop the violence.

"Just this meeting has made an impact on my life,'' he continued. "There is no need to be afraid of this.'' Commissioner Lemay and Mr. Robinson promised another meeting next week and said attempts will be made to get representatives from the missing groups to attend.

It is thought the presence of the CRT team was by request of the rival groups.

And it is understood the idea for the meeting came after Police and community leaders wanted to be proactive, and try and find a solution to the problem of gang violence, rather than being reactive when incidents occur.

Jean-Jacques Lemay CRIME CRM