A baton for special investigators (boas) should make their work safer and better. Since 1 July, municipalities can apply for a permit for this. A wish of Richard Gerrits, chairman of the BOA-ACP trade union, is thus fulfilled. Mayor Jack Mikkers of Den Bosch also thinks it is a great option.
Gerrits speaks of a ‘positive development’. According to him, a trial period with the baton in various municipalities has shown that the boas can handle it well, feel safer and experience less aggression.
“Difficult people no longer have the choice to roll around with a boa.”
“A big advantage is that boas can defend themselves if they get into difficult situations. That difficult people can no longer mess with a boas. It is important that boas are not injured and must stay home sick. Boas are well trained, they are professionals who be able to handle a baton,” said the union boss.
Boas have not only been used for quality of life in recent years, especially during the corona period. Increasingly, they are needed to enforce emergency ordinances. “We also see a lot of aggression towards the police and boas, especially if they issue a fine. There is more violence, so it is good if boas can also defend themselves.”
“Just carrying a baton improves the safety of the boa.”
Gerrits calls the fact that the baton would evoke aggression as ‘utter nonsense’. According to him, the trial period with the baton clearly shows that citizens are no longer discussing or fighting. “So the safety of the boas has improved, just by carrying the baton.”
He sees that there is cold feet. “It is important for municipalities that are hesitant to show good employership. That they see that a baton contributes to the safety of their citizens and their boas.”
“The public usually behaves differently at nighttime catering controls.”
Gerrits sees good clothing, flak jackets, a bodycam and handcuffs as basic equipment. That is sufficient for monitoring. “For enforcement tasks, such as catering checks deep into the night, it is absolutely desirable that a boa also carries a baton and pepper spray. To defend against people who usually behave differently at such times,” Gerrits believes.
“We believe that mayors are responsible for applying for the baton.” The union boss says he will support the boas if they do not feel safe. “Then we will enter into discussions with the municipal council and councilors.”
“The main weapon of the boa remains his mouth to start the conversation.”
One of the municipalities Gerrits does not have to worry about is Den Bosch. Mayor Jack Mikkers: “It is important that we protect our employees well. The tasks of our boas are becoming increasingly extensive.”
He sees tensions rising in society, but he still thinks the most important weapon of a boa is the mouth: “The good conversation to point people to their own responsibility.”
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