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Biters Bitten

Well, it was always going to happen wasn't it. Two of Melbourne's Tram Nazis picked on someone who decided they didn't like the approach of the glorified parking inspectors and got stuck into them physically.

Two of the poor dears ended up in hospital - one with a reported broken arm and both with fine sets of tooth prints.

Now there was an adage when I was a boy that went something along the lines of "live by the sword, die by the sword."

I would be the first person to jump up and down if a ticket inspector was hurt in the line of duty if those same officers showed a bit of respect for commuters.

But no, there have been too many reports - and one good bit of photographic evidence - to suggest that the Tram Nazis have been a bit overenthusiastic in using their appallingly police-like powers.

If they manhandle or restrain commuters while dealing with them for the relatively minor infringement of not paying a tram or train fare, or for not giving personal details, then they are asking for trouble.

Some neanderthal grabbing hold of me in a public place would discover in a very fast manner that touching or grabbing someone is assault and therefore I am entitled to defend myself.

Bring back the conductors!

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