As the police refused the rally permit for the All Women's Action Society (Awam), I cannot help but marvel at the consistency and efficiency of our police.

The Malaysian police has in the past many years refused permits for many such silly gatherings. The ones that are healthy and good for the nation are always permitted. Indeed they were assisted by the police.

Example of these would be when some 'Youth' threatened to burn down the Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall or when the same group broke up a solidarity meeting for East Timorese.

One notable rally that resulted in arrests and fines or jail for those in attendance was a Bar Council gathering some years ago. See, those who know the law must be punished for breaking it.

The police have good reasons to refuse this particular permit. Remember, the job of the police is to arrest people. If permit was given for this, what excuse would the police have to arrest those attending the rally?

The Awam organiser complained that the police was putting up obstacles. This is again a silly remark. Isn't it the police's job to put up obstacles? Look at the road blocks on Friday and Saturday nights to catch drunk drivers.

Road blocks and obstacles have very important functions in running the police force. We all know there are insufficient police officers in the country. At least that was what the Home ministry claimed. One of the reasons for this is possibly due to the lack of money.

By setting road blocks and collecting 'fines' on the spot, police income is enhanced. Isn't that a brilliant way to solve the salary problem?

Similarly, we may not find any police officers patrolling the street. Make no mistake. They are always around. Sometimes hiding in the shadow of trees. If you do not believe, try committing a traffic offence. You will immediately be given a chance to contribute to his/her 'salary'.

Another reason that permit was not given is because rape is a very sensitive subject. This is because for sometime now, baseless allegations have surfaced over the rape of illegal immigrants and refugees, and of course the silly allegations of statutory rape by a very high level official.

How can we make so much noise about rape? It would stir up unnecessary interest for such baseless gossip.

Recently somebody had written a letter to malaysiakini about the shortage of police personnel in some parts of the Klang Valley. Similarly, another friend of mine observed that he has never seen any police patrol for a long time now.

Since many years now our cities are so peaceful and safe, police patrols are a waste of money and manpower. Yes, I said our streets are safe.

Statistics show that there are about 100 snatch thefts in KL/PJ a day, an average one or two rapes in a week, a couple of murders and abductions. Compare this with say Bagdhad. Thank God for our efficient police force.

Furthermore putting police men in every street corner will create fear among the citizens and tourists - including snatch thieves who have to make a living. Rest assured the fact that the missing police officers on our streets is shining proof of our safety and security.

People have confidence in our police force. So to those attempting to get a permit for silly rallies and gatherings, it is better to go home and stay behind closed doors. If you do not, our police will have to find a way to put you away.