Saved by soldiers and police patrol

Now in this country it is almost normal for women to be teased by sexually-driven males, but this time it was so aggressive that I felt very afraid. From the corner of my eye I could see two of the teens walking behind me, which set me off running.

All I could think about at that point was my child who was not far off waiting for me. But as if by some streak of luck, the young men dispersed. Not too long after I saw a group of policemen and soldiers pass by and one of the soldiers actually asked me if I was OK.

Two things struck me: I knew that the troubled youngsters fled in fear of the police/soldiers, sparing me, and the courtesy and respect given to me as a woman made me feel very much protected.

I know that there are various concerns about soldiers working with the police, but I saw first-hand the great work they are doing in making people feel safe. At the end of the day that is what every parent, child, professional or anybody really would want.

I hope that my fellow citizens and our leaders could understand where I am coming from. All I want is my family’s safety and peace of mind.

Juliana Alben

Beetham Gardens