Neighborhood police: have you seen them?

“Every district, neighborhood or village has a police officer responsible for protection of citizens’ rights, freedoms and property, safeguarding personal, social and state security and prevention of any misdeed,” these are the rules of behavior written in the column “Information for Citizens” on the Kyrgyz Internal Affairs Ministry’s official website.

Kyrgyz law enforcement agencies regularly report about their achievements and reforms, but routine days of police officers remain unremarkable.

Today “24.kg” asks Kyrgyz citizens if they know a police officer responsible for their neighborhood and when was the last time they saw him?

Nina Zotova, attorney:

No, I have never seen our police officer. But now when I really need his help I do not know where to find him. Where should I go? To the district or the city police department? Probably, I will just call 02 and find out.

Kurmanbek Baiterekov, head of the Kochkor district, Naryn oblast:

Of course, I know them. There are four police officers in our village. I saw one of them a little more than a week ago when we were patrolling the center of Kochkorka. His name is Temir. I do not remember his last name. Oh, I have just remembered! Temir Ajigulov. He is a reputable person in Kochkorka. Kochkorka is the gates of Tien Shan and everything, including public order should be appropriate here. For example, three days ago I personally sent our policeman to settle a scuffle near a car fleet. If Ajigulov would not come to the place in time, the situation could have gone out of control. I think we have good police officers in our neighborhood.

Olga Mistryukova, owner of a restaurant:

Yes, I know him and know his honest job. Last time he was here two weeks ago. Of course, he did not come to have a lunch. He came to warn us that car-thefts and break-ins became more frequent in our neighborhood and recommended to be watchful and notify our clients about it.

Ernis Dokenov, Member of Bishkek City Parliament, leader of Kyrgyz Railroad Trade Union:

I have not changed address since 1974. And believe it or not, I have never seen a police officer in our neighborhood and I do not know any of them by name. I do not know if it tells about welfare in our district and perfect work of the police. Possibly he has been here to get acquainted with us, to listen to our complaints and worries, but I am not sure. Probably, he could not catch us at home since 1974 (he laughs).

Sergei Apasov, the Dozor program copy editor at the Independent Bishkek Television (NBT):

Yes, I know him. His name is Usen. Last time I saw him 2 weeks ago when he was seeking for someone in our neighborhood. Fortunately, I did not have a reason to turn to him. Our communication has never gone any further than saying “hello” to each other.

Tattu Mambetalieva, leader of the Civil Initiative of Internet Policy social fund: No, I do not know him as I have recently moved here. I knew the police officer at my previous place. His name was Bakyt and he did a pretty good job. He used to come and wonder how we were doing and what was going on.

Tolgonay Stamalieva, press service manager assistant of the Kyrgyz Parliament:

No, I do not know him and have never seen him. I spend most of my time at work, since early mornings till late evenings. And thank God, I never had a reason to seek help from the police.