Police stop writing tickets for minor offences in early retirement protest

From today, the police will stop issuing fines for minor violations in a protest demanding a decent early retirement scheme for cops. More far-reaching protest actions are not excluded, the police union ANPV said in a statement.

“Apparently, it takes a lot to convince employers and politicians that police work is hard work and that a decent early retirement scheme is, therefore, simply a sign of respect and appreciation,” the police union said.

From today, people caught committing a minor offense like public urination or cycling without lights will get only a warning, and a leaflet with information about the protest. Though the police officer may decide to issue a fine if the situation demands it. “It is always at the discretion of the officer on the spot.”

Negotiations for a new early retirement scheme will start today. The police unions plan to continue this no-fines protest until they reach a result. If this protest does not achieve the desired result, harsher action may follow, the union said.