By: Zofia Lewandowska
Why the name? Because I left just before the recent protests really got started. I didn’t want to take any chances seeing that violence seemed brewing by both the organisers and as could be expected the Hathian PD. But anyway, let’s get back to the article…
As you know, on the 23rd March 2024, a group of citizens organized a protest against the HPD. People were concerned about HPD’s methods, especially in relation to how they treat women. You can read something about it here.
So anyway, before the protests I decided to visit HPD and later the FDH to take a look around and maybe ask some questions.
In Front of the House of ‘Justice’
I arrived early, hoping it was still safe, and immediately noticed that the police station was barricaded, as if they were expecting a war. Concrete and barriers everywhere and a SWAT van at the ready.
Luckily outside the police station, I met Officer Lee, who agreed to a brief interview. Very short because the police station really looked like a fortress and tension was rising and I was worried that something might happen soon, so I was quick and so was Officer Lee.
Getting Answers
Zofia “Hello, Officer Lee. Thank you for taking the time to answer a few questions. I know the timing isn’t the best. Are the police prepared to calmly discuss citizens’ concerns? Are there any tables and chairs where people can sit and talk?”
Officer Lee pointed towards the station.
Lee “There are plenty of places to sit, talk and discuss. Down there.”
After Lee’s answer another officer, not very talkative, joined us, he had a big axe and I asked him what the axe was for. His answer was brief.
Unknown officer “That’s classified, Ma’am.”
Why the police needs an axe? I decided to continue my conversation with Officer Lee.
Zofia “My next question, which might really interest our readers, is. How do you keep the station running during protests? How can those who need HPD assistance contact you? Can they enter the station, report a crime, call 911?”
Lee “Yes, dispatch is still available.”
He didn’t say whether the station was open or closed.
Zofia “I understand. Officer Lee, but the station’s closed? So people can’t get in to ask for help and use the police? Or are you planning on installing security barriers and letting people in after you check them out, make sure they’re not armed and dangerous? And can I take some photos?”
He agreed to the photographs but again did not say whether the station was open or closed. So I took at least a few photos and asked again.
Zofia “Thanks. Yes, it looks good. So the police station is off-limits to the public, right?”
Lee “That would be right, ma’am. Is that all?”
I got a response, so the police station is closed. Then I left the place and went to FDH.
In the Firehouse
I walked into the FDH and it was packed, everyone was busy preparing for potential danger. Everyone was ready to act quickly and go to the aid of citizens in need.
Busy place, but I was lucky again and met Captain Rog Messmer.
Zofia “I work for the Observer and was wondering how prepared FDH is to handle the situation front of HPD. Have any precautions been taken?”
Rog “Yes, we’ll be there to help sort out anything the police can’t handle, you know, just like any other day…”
And I had this feeling These guys are ready to save lives 24/7 and in a few minutes they drove their cars towards HPD station.
That concludes my article. I hope nothing serious happens and has happened, and you can hopefully read about what happened before HPD in different article.
