27th

Tfoday was allocated to vocational visits and together with Raj, the lead of the Sth African Team, I started the day by going to the Ofices of the Police White Collar Crime and Confiscation Unit.  We also saw the head of the Stolen Idol Recovery Unit.  Our arrival was met by 5 TV crews and at least 20 photographers.  Either the police had 'guilded the lilly' over the purpose of our visit, or it was a slow news day.  That evening, when the event was the rolling news item on at least two news channels and then the next day, when the visit was covered with pics in two national daily papers, we found that perhaps the police had slightly exagerated our importance, but it did get good cover for the Rotary GSE.  The visit was very interesting and the expertise of the Officer in Charge of the Confiscation Unit was readily apparent.  Also, we learned of the problem of idols being stolen from temples and shipped abroad, where they fetch exceptional prices.

In the afternoon, I visited the workplace of my host, a large departmental store which dealt in both retail and wholesale transactions. I also heard of his role in managing the family charity, which provides  schooling and technical training to 5000 students.

The  Team met up at 6 pm at  the  Madras Pallava Rotary Club, for their regular wekly meeting.  We were made most welcome and after the Club business we gave our presentaion on our work, family and interests back home.  The 30 min presentation seemed to be well received.  The Club business was then completed and we shared a meal and drink with the members and enjoyed some excellent fellowship.