When snatch theft hits close....

This afternoon, a bunch of us had a get together at a friend's place for an iPad session. The group was made up of senior citizens and our hostess had thrown in lunch for us as well. We had a fun time... I played teacher. And one of them had just gotten her new iPad too. She was so happy to be able to watch movies on it. It was nice to be able to get together after quite a while....

At around 3 p.m., because the sky was showing signs of rain, we decided to make move. We were all quite happy and pleased. I thought all of us had gotten into our cars and left. A motorbike passed us but none of us really took notice of it. Then just as I was sitting down, a call came from the friend who had just gotten her new iPad. Two guys on the bike and gone one round and when they saw my friend still getting into the car, one of them snatched her chain as well as her iPad. I rushed over and both of us went round the taman. I thought I saw the two culprits on the bike but I lost them because I had to turn my car around to follow them.

Our leaders talk about our achievements. Yet in this one area of security, they've failed to ensure that. When I first came to Alor Setar, one of the things that impressed me about the place was how safe everything seemed. You could leave your car keys in the ignition and be rest assured that it will still be there. The locals used to tell me with pride that it's because the people here were honest and God fearing. Those days are long gone. I find myself contemplating getting a dog and securing my perimeter with CCTV. Friends have been telling me the regular break ins which have been taking place.

I feel bad for my friend. I'm indignant that the police are not seen around so much any more. What you can see though is their spanking new police headquarters rising above the city skyline. And you know what, when traffic lights break down, they cordon off one road and cause great inconvenience to motorists. Mr. Policeman will be at the traffic light, sitting on the barrier or leaning on something, and watching the traffic placidly. I wonder whether this is their new SOP, to divert traffic with barriers when traffic lights at crossroads break down.

We seldom see police presence on Thursday evenings when Mat Rempit wannabes fill their road with their dangerous riding as well as big number. I don't go out much in the evenings these days and I don't know whether it's still a permanent fixture on certain roads in Alor Setar on Thursdays. Instead, like a friend said, you'll find police holding road blocks at busy roads after office hours where vehicles have to make a beeline at busy roads. Some people are beginning to wonder why this and not during those happy rempit hours.... when so much nuisance is caused.

But today, I am infuriated by the thuggish act. It makes me look around for reasons for it. My friend is a tough lady and used to be in the force. Even ex-service personnels are not safe from such threats. I hope these criminals get what they deserve. May they die a thousand painful deaths.... really geram.