Pauline Etienne
30 November 2007
Port Louis — I will not point an accusing finger at anyone. I do not really know what is the cause behind the decline in Law and Order in this country. However, what I know is that it can't go on. Something must be done and it has to start at the very top of the hierarchy. This is where power lies and this is where willingness to act must be seen. Some days back, someone was telling me that police officers could easily catch those who drink and drive if they were based in the right places. "How useful is it to do a breath-test in the middle of nowhere?" he genuinely wondered. It seems he has just touched the weak point.
It seems the police and the authorities in general have difficulty concentrating on what should be their priorities. No Mauritian will dare walk in one of the streets of our main towns as soon as the sun sets. Do you find it normal to have to counter check whether you have closed all your windows and double locked your doors? If the police force is indeed lacking in vehicles or staff, it is a matter of emergency to give them the proper equipment. If the problem is elsewhere - training, lack of motivation or anything else - it should also be addressed.
There are burglaries and violence almost every day in this country and, as tax payers, we have the right to demand more security. All parents should have the right to rest easy while their children are out without wondering whether the latter will return home safely. This also implies that the police deliver the goods in terms of unsolved crimes. If all criminals felt they would be punished for their crimes, there is no doubt that they would think twice before committing any reprehensible action.
If thieves and criminals continue to set about tourists in all impunity, I can't see who will dream to visit our country.
We are not on a tight rope yet but it may not be long before we do. Change will certainly not occur overnight and this is why it is so important to take quickly the necessary measures. Of course, the willingness to take action must be there first.
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