A Lesson to us all.

'Have-a-go hero' in police honour
A man from south-east London who has tackled at least 30 criminals on the street has been recognised for his bravery by the Metropolitan Police.
Over the last 15 years, Vincent David Oligbo, who has been called "the pride of Plumstead" has stepped in to stop muggers, pickpockets and drug dealers.

Mr Oligbo, who is 6ft tall and weighs 21 stone, received the Certificate of Merit for his actions.

The certificate honours acts of heroism by members of the public.

'Society ills'

Mr Oligbo said: "I know I won't kill all the ills of the society but somehow I'm contributing something positive to the society.

"If you feel you can do it go ahead and do it. If you are not sure or are scared, then please don't do it, call the police.

"The right procedure is to always call the police."

Daniel Hopkins, a neighbour of Mr Oligbo, said he was now unafraid to walk around the neighbourhood at night.

"I was scared to walk my dog when there were all drug lots here. It's all amazing."

Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/england/london/7185807.stm

Published: 2008/01/13 12:17:36 GMT

© BBC MMVIII

Well done Mr Oligbo, there was a time when you would have not been quite so alone in your sense of duty towards your community, sadly today your actions are quite rare amongst the general population.

I am glad the MET have recognised your efforts. I hope the publicity will inspire more people to do what they can in those sorts of situations and perhaps the next time you feel the need to intervene there might be one or two other people who have the same attitude.

Society had better wake up to the fact that the police cannot be everywhere at the same time and more and more we find that people like you are the only people standing up for those whom a criminal decides to target. The MET are very good at investigating crimes but it is people like you who are able to actually prevent crimes in lots of cases.

Well done and stay safe.