30 Dec 02

Violent Crime in SA:

"As usual during this time of year, there has been a dramatic increase in armed robberies here. The MO of robbery/burglary suspects includes brutally murdering victims, family members (of all ages), and all others in the house. This is, of course, an attempt to prevent identification later, but, in addition, violent criminals here know our government is really on their side. Our government likes people to be scared, and criminals are only too happy to provide that valuable service for our politicians. Violent criminals know that there is little chance of being caught and even less that they will be punished in any way that will disrupt their lifestyle.

When confronted by violent criminals, I have advised all of my (and your) friends to immediately and enthusiastically counterattack, at once applying maximum deadly force to all suspects, no matter the odds. As is the case in your country, our bad guys here do an amazing disappearing act when confronted by an armed citizen who gives every impression that he knows what he is doing with a gun."

Lesson: Weakness perceived is weakness exploited! "Prey behavior" on the part of victims always elicits "predator behavior" on the part of criminals. If you're legitimately ready, able, prepared, and willing to fight at all times, you'll probably never have to. As my first chief once said, "A little respect goes a long way."

/John