The Religious Policeman

When I spoke a few days ago about our daily terrorist shoot-outs, I didn't mean to be so prophetic.

Security Officer Shot Dead by Militants Near Riyadh

RIYADH, 15 April 2004 — A security officer was shot dead and another wounded by gunmen who opened fire on their patrol yesterday at Shoaib Al-Haysa near the entrance of Wadi Al-Hanifa on the outskirts of Al-Uyaynah town, 45 kilometers northwest of Riyadh, security sources said.

The patrol, carrying members of the “Al-Mujahedeen”, a unit affiliated to the internal security forces, came under fire from gunmen in a white Mitsubishi pickup at around 2 p.m., the sources said. One security man — Naif Al-Otaibi — was killed and another — Bujaid Al-Otaibi — was injured.

You'll notice that they brought in a "crack" unit - “Al-Mujahedeen" - "The Holy Warriors". So what was the outcome this time?

1. The terrorists were riddled with bullets, like the ending of "Bonnie and Clyde"?
2. The terrorists surendered, begged the King for pardon, and promised to lead quiet lives in future as good citizens running carpet shops and dry cleaners?
3. The terrorists escaped?

No prizes for guessing. Perhaps they possess the "Lord of the Rings" ring, so they can just vanish when they choose.

Significantly, our brave press are not commenting on this series of debacles. It would be too difficult to avoid even hinting at collusion and misplaced loyalties. Crown Prince Abdullah must be a very worried man, wondering just who will back him when push comes to shove.