The Malta Police Force has had a chequered history of ups and downs.

Ever since its institution in July 1814, many members have merited good conduct certificates. Some received medals for gallantry and acts of bravery.

Good organisation improved their efficiency. Nowadays conditions of service and pay as well as promotions attract better recruits to maintain public order.

Nevertheless, the overall history is replete with shades of grey and black. Spectacular headlines of the media sow fear in public minds.

Sometimes the force is as black as it is painted. Mark Antony in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar sees both sides of the question: The evil that men do lives after them.

The good is oft interred with their bones.

Perhaps the force should take a leaf from the teachers’ disciplinary code and concentrate on applying deterrents. At four years of age I was made to kneel in a corner facing the wall, while at primary level I was kept after school, at the lyceum my name was recorded in the Black Book.

One might say there is no comparison. There is.

The policeman could take down a culprit’s particulars and force him or her to register at the local police station for three days.

A policeman could easily confiscate one’s ID card, driving licence, passport or even wallet. The culprit would be disarmed of the essentials needed in a bar. And surely spending one night in a cell would be an unforgettable experience.

Perhaps a police think-tank could come out with other deterrents.