I hardly go to market with my mum. I used to do so when I was young. I was shocked to witness an incident in the market this morning.

The enforcement officers from MBI came in a truck. I estimated about 9 of them. All in uniform. In the name of carrying out enforcement duties, ensuring there are no unlicensed hawkers or sellers. maybe for the interest of the consumers too.

A few went to the 2 stalls which were set up at the road side. The MBI truck was parked right in front of it.

The few were hanging around at the stalls, one selling kitchenwares and another, watches. One asked questions and the others were looking at the items. One took a “scruber” . The seller took a plastic bag and put the scruber into it. The officer took his wallet from his pocket (back) and before he could open it, the seller handed over the plastic bag and make a signal. The officer just took it.

Then, another, took two items, chopsticks and a “clipper”. This officer did not even need to pull out his wallet.

I was just standing beside the 2 stalls observing how they “carry out” their duties. Another stall sells watches. None of the officer “buy” any, though they made enquiries.

Then, they left.

I asked one of the seller if he has licence. He said yes. Then, I asked how often they come to the market. He said sometimes. I reconfirmed with the seller if the officers paid. He said no. He said, that he would rather just give it to them, if not they would find faults and give them trouble. The kitchen wares he sells is 3 items for RM 5. He said, the items do not cost much. He further said, if they took the money paid by the officers (for the items that the officers buy), next time, they will come and find faults with them.

I was stunned.

My mum asked me if officers can “buy” things when they are on duties. I said, I do not know.

These are the little napoleans. They did it in public. I was standing there observing them. I was not hiding at a corner. They did it in open. I can only conclude that they have already “expected” that they will have such “treatment” if they want to “buy” things. I believe this is not an isolated case.

The small traders in the market (licensed) should not be fearful of them. However, I do understand why they rather give it free to the officers.

What can we do?