Police Chief Carl John recently told Parliament (see Wednesday newspaper) “We have tracked every one of these threatening WhatsApp messages.” He said if any had posed a direct threat to members they would have been informed.
That’s reassuring in light of current developments, but using such menacing language online remains a concern. Even if the person(s) involved would never seriously consider putting their words into action, others might be inspired and/or stimulated to do so.
In fact, several of the controversial statements being spread on social media can be qualified as downright incitement by promoting violence. Calling on people to physically injure co-citizens is obviously wrong and a punishable crime.
While authorities are no doubt busy, the culprits shouldn’t be allowed to continue their antisocial and dangerous behaviour. Even bringing them in just for questioning and to be reprimanded could make a positive difference.
Under normal circumstances, such verbal offences have understandably not been a major priority for law enforcement when nobody actually gets hurt. It now nevertheless seems high time to set an example, because things appear to be quickly getting out of hand in that respect.
To be sure, free speech is a sacred right. However, your freedom ends where mine begins.
