Parliamentarian Francisco Lacroes of the United People’s (UP) party is calling on residents (see related story) to report sewage discharge, septic overflows and wastewater issues as part of an enquiry into the matter. The opposition member wants people who observe such to submit a photograph or video of the location, the street name and house number where applicable, the district or neighbourhood, a brief description of the issue and the date it was observed.
The initiative in principle deserves support. Law enforcement can’t be everywhere all the time and needs the population’s help.
In fact, similar actions have been suggested earlier in this column regarding illegal waste dumping. Without physical evidence including licence plate images it is difficult to effectively tackle these environmentally irresponsible practices.
At the same time, one ought not take unnecessary risks. Offenders usually don’t like getting caught and may react accordingly.
They seemingly have no problem breaking the rules and are already doing so. There is consequently no telling how far those involved might go.
So, anybody who decides to comply with the elected representative’s request should try to remain undetected by the culprits. Also do not post the footage on your own social media.
Assist authorities where possible, but avoid jeopardising your personal safety in the process.
