This topic has already been covered on other blogs, but I want it in my library as the newspapers don't always keep their archives accessible over time.
A South Auckland liquor store owner stabbed during a brawl has been charged with assault. Virender Singh, 40, appeared at Manukau District Court on Friday to face two counts of assault with intent to injure. He was remanded on bail until 23 October.And this report:
A South Auckland liquor store owner was stabbed and a female dairy owner hit in the head with a fence paling after a vicious attack by a gang of youths. The couple's nephew, Baljit Singh, was also punched by the youths. The three victims were taken to hospital, along with one of the alleged attackers. The family managed to trap one of the youths in the store till police came. [Stuff - Oct 1, 2008]And this report:
Police allege Mr Singh injured two teenagers in the incident outside the Gilbert Road Liquor Store which involved the use of improvised weapons. They included a knife, hockey stick and fence paling. Mr Singh was stabbed in the leg during the brawl in Franich Street, Otara, on Monday. His wife, nephew and another woman were also injured. [Radio NZ - Oct 5, 2008]So not only Mr Singh got hurt, but he had to watch his wife and others being attacked.
Police say they will also be laying serious charges against a 15-year-old involved in the fight.There were FOUR youths involved in the attack. Does the law only punish innocent people that win fights? The intent on these four were to rob and they were prepared to harm people doing this. Being prevented from this doesn't result in serious charges being laid??
He says Mr Singh's arrest is a reminder that taking the law into your own hands cannot be justified. "It's quite clear that the shop owner in this instance has clearly exceeded using force that would be reasonable to defend himself, another person or his property.This serves as a reminder that there is no empathy for the stress victims go through in a situation of violence. They didn't start it. The fact that the law requires victims to be cool, calm and rational throughout an attack is disgusting and effectively removes the right to self defence whilst these attitudes are maintained.