Blackout ‘crucial’

Press, 2 July 1983, Page 1

Blackout ‘crucial’

Wellington reporter An unprecedented national news media blackout was said by the police yesterday to be crucial in securing Gloria Kong’s safe recovery. “I am confident that the co-operation we got from the news media was one of the reasons we got the girl back unharmed,” said the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr K. 0. Thompson. "It certainly gave us a considerable degree of advantage in our investigations.” Newspapers and radio

stations voluntarily agreed to a news blackout on the kidnapping. The police asked for a blackout at 9 a.m. on Thursday on the ground that publicity would endanger the girl’s life. Mr Thompson said that although there had been no specific death threat, the kidnappers had told the parents not to tell the police. Since the kidnappers were armed, it was reasonable for the police to assume there was a risk, and to seek the blackout. As far as he knew the request was unprecedented. The possibility of an effec-

tive blackout arose because few people knew about the crime, and because the location was isolated. “It was certainly an exceptional circumstance and it is extremely unlikely to become regular practice,” Mr Thompson said. The police had no statutory power to impose a blackout. “It was a remarkable instance of co-operation, and of a responsible attitude being shown by the news media,” he said.

“The greatest advantage was that the kidnappers were totally unaware of our over-all response, and the response of parents and other relatives.” The blackout lasted for more than 24 hours, being lifted only when Gloria Kong was reported safe yesterday morning. Mr Thompson said he had criticised the news media in the past “but on this occasion they get nothing but praise from me.” He doubted the blackout would be viewed as a precedent. but said that further requests could not be discounted. He said each case would have to be considered on its merits.