Mas Selamat causes massive jams

I have just read about an article involving the infamous, Mas Selamat Kastari. This time, it seems that more problems have arose due to his escape just days ago.



The Immigration Checkpoints Authority (ICA) have begun conducting strict checks at the two border crossings from Singapore to Johor, causing massive traffic jams made up of up to 10km of lorries. Drivers have had to remain that way for more than 15 hours, yet they were still nowhere near the checkpoint.



Not only do they have to endure the poor living conditions with only instant noodles for food, a lorry to sleep in, and not having a bath, they also have to cope with pressure from their bosses to make the deliveries. Yet this is not causing the ICA to let up on the checks.



The question of whether to let people suffer and possibly lose their jobs in order to catch the terrorist arises. I personally sympathise with the poor drivers who have had to be stuck on the road for such a long period of time as i recently experienced the same problem in japan where it snowed heavily, preventing us from moving from the rest stop. Having to stay on a vehicle for long periods of time without moving much is really frustrating, but i feel it is the tension of trying to explain to bosses on the big delay and the possibility of losing their jobs would be a bigger issue altogether.



On the other hand, Having a terrorist on the loose, is something that would affect our whole society. The terrors of what may happen if he were to escape would be unimaginable. This time, he may not just target Changi Airport, but also the rest of Singapore. The safety of Singapore would be at great risk.



If I were to be stuck in the position of those in charge of the ICA, I think I would do the same. While people might lose their jobs due to this, I feel the safety of Singapore would come first. While jobs can be found, if Singapore were to be attacked, jobs would not even matter any more. I can only hope that the bosses of the drivers are understanding and hope for the best for the drivers and their families.