I was paying for my purchases at Countdown Bethlehem on Sunday, April 16, when out of the corner of my eye I noticed a staff member looking anxious and at the same time a man walking through the exit doors.

Something clicked and I said to my till clerk: ‘Did that guy just walk out the door without paying?' ‘Yes,' she said. Dumbfounded, I said: ‘Why hasn't anybody stopped him?' Answer: ‘It is Company Policy not to interfere'. ‘What! Why?' I asked. ‘For fear of repercussions,' she said and placed a fist at her throat. What a sad and gutless country we have become when the lawless reign and the innocent cower. Sadder still is if Joe Bloggs does take action he will most probably be arrested as well.

Oh well, let's just keep our heads down and not interfere. After all I'm okay Jack – for now.

Dennis Schionning, Te Puna.

*When approached to confirm the experience above by the letter author, Countdown's communications team passed on the opportunity to respond to this letter.