The almost daily revelations of collusion and participation of police officers in the criminal neo-Nazi gang is a considerable problem for the Police’s credibility. It is a fact that in the past there have been many reports of the Police tolerating attacks against immigrants and covering for those who were involved in those attacks.
The investigation that the relevant minister took the initiative to order must be seen through to the end. In the past there has been an effort to play down or even ignore certain events and reports. After this avalanche of revelations there can be no more room for cover ups or tolerance. Any suspect police officers who have tolerated or – even worse – cooperated with the neo-Nazis have no place in the police force.
The institutional role of the Police in a democracy is to protect the people, without distinction and with utmost respect to the Constitution and the laws. It is obvious that any police officers who have misinterpreted that role have no place in the force. Political games and clientelism cannot protect anyone anymore. Mr. Dendias has the responsibility and duty to clear this minefield, so that the great majority of police officers respect their role and perform their duty. The final line of defense must be broken so that the people can feel that they live under the rule of law and that they can trust the police and its officers, just like one does in a law-abiding democracy.
TO VIMA
