Barcelona Attack

The terrible news last evening produced world wide condemnation and expressions of sympathy for the victims and their families, to which this Blog adds its own shocked voice.

Unfortunately there is really no defence against random attacks by low profile terrorists using ordinary vehicles as weapons. One can only hope that as time goes by a way will be found to increase the protection of innocent people. Having said that the level of protection provided by police and security forces all across Europe is remarkable, considering the ease with which these outrages can be put into effect. The shooting dead of a number of terrorist suspects by the police in what appears to be a repeat attempt to run down pedestrians in Cambrils, shows just how fine is the line between success and failure in this deadly situation.

As always the heroes of the hour are first responders, the police and the medics who rush forward into danger to save and protect. So are those who are free to flee but stay to help loved ones or complete strangers who have been struck down in the mayhem.

It would be good if we could see and end to all this. Meanwhile we have to do our best to minimise and contain it. In that we all have a responsibility to watch and be wary.