Community against crime

Community against crime

From Suara Karya

The public will praise successful attempts by the police to seize criminals. However, these days community members prefer to catch crooks and punish them physically on the spot.

A newspaper reported on the capture of three bandits by passengers in a holdup on a city bus in Jakarta. The suspects, including three fugitives, were caught after a passenger shouted for help, prompting people nearby to respond.

The solidarity of community members in giving mutual support at times of danger should be further fostered. The courage of citizens to seek help by any possible means under such circumstances also deserves appreciation.

By promoting a culture of mutual response and assistance in society, criminals will think twice before they commit offenses. The public, however, should also be alert to robbers using the same tactic to turn innocent people into scapegoats.

MUHAMMAD IMRON Jakarta