A former Merseyside Police officer has issued a "vital plea" on Good Morning Britain.
John Williams appeared on today's edition of the ITV news programme as police remain on the hunt for the gunman responsible for Olivia Pratt-Korbel's murder. Mr Williams was a Detective Chief Inspector and spent 30 years investigating gangs in Liverpool.
He urged anyone with information to come forward so the person responsible for the killing of the innocent nine-year-old can be brought to justice. Mr Williams said: "I will implore the community out there to speak to the police and try to prevent this from ever happening again."
READ MORE: Target of shooting that killed Olivia Pratt-Korbel is convicted burglar
Mr Williams explained there are two things competing which would prevent people from sharing information with the police. He added: "We've got the no grass culture and the fear people will have of reprisal if they speak to police. I would say to the criminal fraternity out there this is not the time for codes.
"Secondly, if you live in the community and you value your community then speak to the police because there are professionals who will ensure your information is handled in a safe manner and not put you at risk."
Merseyside has been rocked after a devastating week which also saw three other people killed. On the same night of Olivia's death, Karen Dempsey was fatally stabbed in Kirkby. Sam Rimmer, 22, was shot dead in Dingle on August 16 and Ashley Dale, 28, was shot fatally in her own home in Old Swan on August 21.
Mr Williams told hosts Kate Garraway and Adil Ray what action must be taken to prevent further tragedies in the future. He said: "We need to think of the how and the why.
"We need to engage with those involved in gang crime at an early age. We've got some of the strongest firearm legislation in the Western world, but firearms are still coming into Merseyside and the UK."
He also explained initiatives must be set-up to show youngsters that joining gangs is not a "viable option". He added: "You've got a child from a socially deprived area. There are very few opportunities for them and then you've got the Mr Big in a gang who will offer them a couple of hundred pounds and a car - and say all you've got to do is deal drugs.
"We have got kids out there who are not engaged with education and employment. Let's give them another option. Nobody is born bad."
Kate praised Mr Williams at the end of the interview as she expressed hope his "vital plea" is heard. Anyone with information, footage or images is asked to contact Merseyside Police via the following link Public Portal ( mipp.police.uk ), @MerPolCC or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with reference 22000621566.
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