New Zealand Police have a unique problem: against a scenario of declining crime both at home and on the streets, there is growing public apathy towards the so-called ‘establishment’ precluding them from offering assistance and support that could make our homes and public places safer.
Police officials repeatedly appeal to people to remain vigilant and come forward with information that could lead to an early solution to an offence committed – solution that could mean apprehending the perpetrator/s, offering relief to the victims concerned and most important of all, serving as a deterrent to the criminal elements in the society. While the people of other ethnic groups are far more cooperative, it is alleged that members of the Indian community largely remain indifferent.
Such blatant apathy is of course not far to seek. Indian migrants are perhaps subject to a different police regime in the countries of their erstwhile residence. There are tales of genuine citizens finding themselves viewed as suspects and as such victimised by the police. There are also tales of corruption among the law enforcement officers, while in some cases, the underworld, politicians and other powerful groups dominate the police force, constraining them to remain inactive. As members of the public try to do their civic duty, they are hassled, tortured and in some cases even ‘done with.’
But New Zealand is a civilised society where the rule of the law reigns supreme and the police are above temptation, fear and other factors that may proscribe them from conducting their business. Apart from ensuring the confidentiality of those offering help, our police are known to go an extra mile to ensure the safety of such people.
Community is what we make and the police are but a part of our social fabric.
