THE LEAD STORY in yesterday's STAR told the comical tale of an elderly woman who is alleged to have assaulted a police officer after he came to her house to quell a dispute.
Apart from the initial humour, this story reflects some serious issues. The first being the fact that there is a general and popular belief among people, that members of the police force are not to be trusted. Perhaps this fear is because so many people have accused the police of brutality and have given people what they see as enough reason to view the police with contempt. Many therefore feel the need to defend their home or person, even though there is no threat.
What makes the story humorous, however, is just the thought of a 68-year-old woman beating a corporal in the head with a meat board. And, though we really are not sure what happened, just the thought is funny.
What we should take from this story, however, is the fact that the relationship between the police and the citizens is not what it should be. If there is mistrust and disharmony between the police and the people they are sworn to protect, this would undoubtedly make it harder for both parties to play their part. This can only affect us negatively as if people are unable to trust the police and the relationship is strained, little progress will be made.