When soldiers moved into the refuge center, the deterrent effect of the batons instantly reduced, but their value did not diminish.
And when vehicles going out needed an escort, although a soldier armed with a firearm would be provided, it was also required for members of the Thompson family, carrying batons, to follow.
Of course, the Officials did not just take advantage of them. They provided some subsidies every time they escorted a vehicle, not much, but in this era of supply distribution, the temptation was indeed great.
And if the Thompson family didn't want to escort the vehicles, they wouldn't be forced to. But every time they distributed supplies outside, they would 'borrow' the batons from them.
Although they would return them each time, they had to take care of several refuge centers, which meant the transportation of supplies was ceaseless, hence the batons too trailed the vehicle instead of the people.
