บท 149: Chapter 149: The Importance of Guiding Public Opinion
Director Ed was deeply troubled that evening. The gunfire echoing through Los Angeles was intense, almost like a war zone. He was at a loss about how to explain the situation the next day.
"What if the mayor asks about this?" he worried.
"How should I handle the panicked public?"
He wondered how he would respond to the reporters.
If it turned out to be a gang war, he would be held responsible.
Henry had contacted Chief Ed, and they met on a quiet street. Ed got into Henry's car, leaving the driver behind. The two were now alone in the vehicle.
"Chief Ed, you need to do something," Henry said with a reassuring smile.
"Seriously? With gunfights everywhere and so many casualties, I'm lucky just to hold onto my position," Ed replied, his face reflecting his distress.
Henry chuckled. "So, what do you think happened tonight?"
Ed looked confused. "What do you mean? Isn't it because two gangs clashed, causing all these casualties?"
Henry shook his head. "No, that's not quite right. Here's the real story: the North Shore Gang, a notorious criminal organization entrenched in Los Angeles, was the target. You, Chief Ed, have been working hard to eliminate them, and recently, you discovered they were planning a major drug deal. The police, with support from HD Security, launched a raid. During the operation, they faced fierce resistance but ultimately managed to dismantle the drug operation and take down many criminals."
Ed's eyes widened in surprise. "Is that really what happened?"
"Absolutely. As the police chief, you know the details better than anyone. The police and HD Security did engage in a major operation tonight. Who can deny that?" Henry said.
Ed's shock turned into excitement. If Henry's version was true, he could be portrayed as a hero who cracked a major case and dismantled a dangerous gang.
"Drugs? Where did they come from?" Ed asked.
"Don't worry, we have everything prepared for you," Henry said with a smile.
Ed's enthusiasm grew. "If that's the case, the police not only did a great job but will also be praised. Can anyone question that?"
"Whether they believe it or not is up to you. Gather the reporters, hold a press conference, and make sure the story is presented our way. If any incorrect reports come out, the Los Angeles Police Department will reserve the right to take action," Henry instructed.
Ed nodded eagerly. "Yes, we need to control the narrative. As long as public opinion is on our side, people won't doubt us."
When Ed stepped out of the car, his earlier frown had been replaced by a satisfied smile. This was a chance for a significant win.
Back at the police station, Ed immediately organized the police to set up checkpoints at various intersections. Reporters were directed to the police station for a press conference.
Meanwhile, the Bill Gang had attacked North Shore Gang operations, encountering only minimal resistance before taking control. The North Shore Gang, already stretched thin by their involvement in the night's chaos, was overwhelmed by Bill's forces.
The North Shore Gang's sites revealed substantial drug supplies—nearly 50 kilograms—which Bill ordered loaded onto trucks and delivered directly to Chief Ed.
The North Shore Gang's resistance against the HD Security team was ineffective. Many were either defeated or surrendered, leading to the complete dismantling of their operations.
That night, many Los Angeles residents were jolted awake by the sounds of gunfire. The streets were busy with passing vehicles and sirens blaring. People speculated about a major event unfolding in the city.
Curious reporters ventured out, hoping to capture the breaking news. They found intersections guarded by police officers, who directed them to the police station for a press conference.
At 3 a.m., around thirty to forty reporters from various news outlets gathered in the police station's large conference room. A large pile of items covered with a cloth stood in the center of the stage.
Director Ed entered with a confident smile. As soon as he appeared, reporters bombarded him with questions.
"Mr. Director, what happened tonight? Were there gunfights throughout Los Angeles?"
"Witnesses reported numerous casualties. Is that true?"
"Are several major gangs involved in tonight's events?"
Ed calmly raised his hands to silence the room. "I understand your concerns. I will provide a full account of the events tonight, and I believe it will clarify everything."
He continued, "Tonight's operation was initiated by the Los Angeles Police Department, targeting the North Shore Gang, a criminal organization entrenched in our city. The North Shore Gang has long been involved in serious criminal activities. I vowed to eradicate them when I took office."
Ed explained that undercover agents had infiltrated the North Shore Gang and discovered their plans for a large-scale drug transaction. The police, supported by HD Security, launched a raid that faced intense resistance. The gunfire heard by residents was a result of this operation.
"The Los Angeles Police Department is committed to maintaining order and protecting our citizens. We faced numerous challenges but successfully eliminated this criminal threat," Ed declared, raising his voice for emphasis.
He pointed to the covered pile. "These are the items seized tonight."
The cloth was removed to reveal a large cache of weapons and drugs. The flashes of cameras lit up the room as reporters took pictures.
Director Ed stood proudly beside the display. Once the photos were taken, he continued, "Tonight's operation resulted in over 80 gangsters eliminated, more than 200 arrests, and over 500 weapons seized, along with five tons of drugs."
He praised HD Security for their significant role in the operation and highlighted the overall drop in crime rates since their involvement.
"Initially, there were critics of hiring HD Security, but the results speak for themselves. The investment in public safety is clearly worthwhile," Ed concluded.
The press conference wrapped up with Ed's final reminder to reporters: "Please focus on the official information and avoid speculative content. Misreporting will have consequences."
The next morning, headlines across Los Angeles praised the police and HD Security for their successful operation against the North Shore Gang. Residents were relieved and satisfied with the outcome, praising Chief Ed and the security team for their efforts. The mayor also called Ed to commend him on handling the situation effectively.
"Ed, regardless of the truth, what matters is that the public is satisfied. That's a measure of our success," the mayor said with approval.
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