Perhaps we should not be surprised that malign forces are setting out to intimidate members of the district policing partnerships across Northern Ireland.
The new groups have displayed their credibility and effectiveness within a relatively short period, and can be expected to increase their impact on behalf of the entire community as time goes by.
All the threats can be seen clearly as a sign of desperation on the part of those blindly opposed to any form of progress.
Those elements draw no distinction between past and present policing structures.
They view any form of civic authority as a threat to their criminal enterprises, and respond accordingly.
The fact that the Good Friday Agreement, and all that it entails, was overwhelmingly endorsed by the Irish electorate, north and south, has no meaning whatsoever for them.
It was reassuring to hear the Oversight Commissioner, Tom Constantine, speak yesterday of his firm conviction that the latest sinister campaign would not work.
However, no-one should underestimate the pressures faced by DPP members and their families in the present circumstances.
It is essential that their personal security should be carefully considered in the days ahead.
What is probably more important is that ordinary people should make their voices heard over recent events.
Expressions of support for those who are taking such a courageous stand, whether offered publicly or privately, would have immense value.
The DPP issue, at its heart, ultimately boils down to a battle between good and evil.
Those who have endlessly avoided taking a definitive stand will soon have to decide which side they are on.
