In a major development in the Curchorem sex scandal case, police have reportedly arrested a youth following mounting pressure from protestors outside the police station. Reports suggest that despite the submission of video evidence by a journalist, the police only proceeded with the arrest after a crowd of 200“300 citizens gathered outside the station, demanding immediate action and refusing to disperse. Law enforcement agencies are entrusted with the responsibility to act on their own initiative when credible information or evidence is presented. Police action should not depend on whether a crowd can be mobilized. Equally concerning are allegations that the accused may have links to a local political figure. Be that as it may, how many times must citizens gather outside police stations before action by the police is forthcoming? We have seen similar scenes recently, with large crowds assembling outside the Colva Police Station. While public participation and vigilance are essential in a democracy, they should not become a prerequisite for basic law enforcement duties. When people perceive inaction or delay, they feel compelled to step in, to demand answers, to push for accountability.
