Spy cameras should be set up to catch people in the act when they dump garbage by the side of the road, according to Royal Gazette readers.

Angry residents got in touch with us yesterday after our front page photograph highlighted fridges, air conditioners and other bulky items discarded in Vesey Street, Devonshire.

"Simple solution at Vesey Street is to install CCTV camera on pole in that area. It could be sponsored by area business and could be done in other locations or hot spots of whatever type," said Brian Hollis.

Kim Durham wrote: "I think that the trash situation within our Island has become so serious that we need to ensure that people who are caught doing this type of thing are brought before the courts and fined to the highest extent of the law in addition to having the trash cleaned up.

"I think that we need to put hidden cameras up in areas which are known for these occurrences to catch the culprits in the act. I personally have to deal with this on a regular basis as my property borders the Shelly Bay Railway Trail, which for the last eight years I've been complaining about.

"I find myself and my family members having to clean up bottles and trash, which has been discarded by drunkards' and the like who continue to hang out there.

"I've called my MP the Honourable Wayne Furbert and Parks regarding this situation several times but nothing seems to get done."

W. Simmons agreed with this straight-to-the-point message: "Spy Cam!"

James Morgan said: "I feel like if we gave people options for collection, maybe once per season where large items would be collected for free, then maybe this sort of illegal dumping would be less prevalent.

"If people still insist on dumping this way then fine them a special collection fee (if they get caught — and some things have tell tale signs of previous ownership like motorbikes etc.)"

Gib Flatts said: "A country with no pride. To those morons who illegally dump, if you have managed to get your garbage to the location of illegal dumping, why not go all the way and take it to the waste disposal centre where it will cost you nothing but a little time.

"My opinion is that a growing number of Bermudians envision the island as their own personal garbage can and it is up to someone else to clean up my mess."

Brian Hartley wrote: "I am on holiday here and think offenders should be fined, I am sure it is free to 'get rid' of fridges etc. legally. How about tracing the serial numbers for each product and imposing a fine on the last owner, I am sure details for transactions are kept by businesses.

"Someone somewhere knows who this is and it is only ruining this beautiful island."

Works Minister Derrick Burgess urged people to take discarded items to Tynes Bay Incinerator — and called for the public to be vigilant in calling them out.

He confirmed people could be prosecuted for dumping garbage in the wrong place.

"If anyone witnesses such acts, they need to call us or call the Police," said Mr. Burgess.

"We are appalled when people act in such a manner, especially when the Tynes Bay Incinerator is so close by.

"It's not like they have to go 100 miles to dump it in the right place."