RIGHT END, WRONG MEANS

Some people were outraged by a front-page picture this week of youngsters
forced to the floor during a police raid on city clubs at the weekend. Some
felt differently, that if strong-arm tactics are required to combat the
scourge of drugs and under-age children in these popular clubs, then the
end justifies the means.

While we wholeheartedly support action against those who push drugs and
encourage impressionable youngsters to experiment with substances that ruin
lives and destroy families, we draw a line against the use of unnecessary
force by the authorities. Once again we question the use of such strong-arm
methods in what is no more than a routine operation involving mainly
innocents in the pursuit of pleasure.

That it is still happening is a cause for concern, despite the relative
success of the operation in confiscating cocaine, ecstasy tablets and a
dagga cigarette.

Particularly upset is a city family after what one member described as "an
attack ... more like an armed robbery than a raid" during 21st birthday
celebrations at a city nightclub where they claim they and friends had guns
shoved in their faces before being kicked and punched to the ground. So
badly were they treated that they have decided to take legal action against
the police to ensure that they pay for what they call "horrendous and
disgusting behaviour".

There is much public sympathy for members of the police service over their
paltry pay and difficult working conditions. Sadly, this type of behaviour
does their cause more harm than good.