Chinese New Year 2009

Chinese new year this year was plagued with horror robbery stories. Meet ups served as a forum to exchange stories. With the current economic downturn creating unemployment for thousands, the escalating crime rate isn't a surprise. But the brazen attitude of robbers nowadays can send shivers down the spines of even the most hardy of men. Robbers nowadays employ the "Shock & Awe" tactic, first championed by the Americans during the Iraq invasion - the knife/parang strikes first, even before assessing if there are any valuables. This leaves victims in a state of shock with almost zero possibility of retaliation. Sigh... if only they'd just stick out the knife and ASK, I'm pretty sure almost anyone would surrender their valuables. Unnecessary harm avoided. Even those living in gated/guarded communities and apartments aren't spared nowadays...from what i've been told, most of these bold and audacious crimes occur during the day! and are no longer gender biased!

Oh well, there's not much we can do but to take precautionary measures. Be constantly alert and observant of your surroundings, mentally make a quick note of possible criminal scenarios and have evasive action plans in mind, if in an accident - take note of the number plate of the vehicle and make-off to the nearest police station (do not step out of your car!), always ensure car doors are always locked, valuables are not visible even whilst driving, make use of Shopping mall parking security escort services (alot of malls are employing this service now since the Canny Ong murder), and most importantly... if all else fails, toss valuables at the robber and make like a banana and split in the opposite direction or to the nearest crowded area... Lost cars, cash and valuable can be re-purchased but life... life is non renewable. Retaliation is futile.

Take care everyone!!