Turn to written law over legality of guard posts
30/08/2007 The Star

ONCE again the topic of the rights of many versus the rights of a few has re-emerged with the issue of security guard posts on public thoroughfares. And like all the previous times it has cropped up, emotions are again inflamed, tempers rise and insults are traded.

Let cooler heads prevail. Let us take a step backward and examine this issue in as objective a manner as possible.

The road transport ordinance and residential by-laws were formulated with a purpose in mind. Where there is conflict or doubt, we must always return to the written law for a just resolution.

Although I am unable to quote the by-laws in question, it is common knowledge that the erection of any barrier on a public road, and the intervention of a non-authorised individual or group, is illegal.

As stated in a previous letter, only the police, JPJ or the army (with the accompaniment of the police), are authorised to set up roadblocks of any kind.

I truly sympathise with those who have experienced the misfortune of being involved in a burglary or robbery. The feeling of violation in the one place that you take for granted as a safe haven must truly be traumatic. But taking the law into your own hands, even with the implicit approval of the authorities, is not the answer.

Where will the line be drawn, if we choose to do as we please, with complete disregard for the lawful rights of others? The alternative would be anarchy.

The police are trained and entrusted to uphold the law, to serve and to protect. Petty thefts may seem trivial in nature, perhaps. But remember that statistics play a big part in determining the level of police presence and the frequency of patrols. So all incidents should be reported. Problematic areas can then be identified and dealt with.

There is one other solution to this predicament, albeit an unpopular one, as it involves the sacrifice of your own free time. Neighbourhood watches have proven to be highly effective. Know your neighbours and keep them informed of your movements.

Bates SC,
Seremban, Negri Sembilan.