Alarming signs of the times...

closer to home, in Batu Gajah.

During the campaign period of the Kuala Terengganu by-election, from Jan 6 till Jan 16, and soon after, an estimated almost 10% of our police force were on duty there. Compared with the total voters, the figure of 9,000 was more than 10%, or 1 policeman to 10 voters. Of course, we have to take into account the large number of visitors in the form of Ministers and so on, from both coalition parties.

While the police force was stretched, there were a number of cases of snatch robberies and burglaries in Batu Gajah.

I first heard about a number of snatch robberies near the local Fire Station. The criminals knew when the fire brigade were not in their compounds, able to look out to the housing estate. The pillion rider would use his crash helmet to knock on the victim’s head, and once she fell, he would kick her before snatching her jewellery and/or handbag.

Then, I got to know about the burglary at my favourite phone shop where a notebook and some handphones were taken. A week later, their next-door neighbour, a computer shop was broken into, this time, through the front door. I just heard about a burglary or robbery at the KFC, which happened yesterday. I was told, the recent spate of burglaries started at a coffee shop, a clinic and a trading company, which happened on the same day! Then a friend’s house was broken into.

I am sure many members of the public are questioning how the police prioritise their duties. The perception seems to be that they are more concerned about keeping track of harmless cyclists, members of public keeping candlelight vigils and unarmed voters and supporters of political parties.