It starts with the people. [He's aware, to some degree, that his tactics aren't effective, but he doesn't know what else he can do. If he had access to the leaders, it would be one thing, but even that might not work as he wants to. What he needs is a way to reach many people at once.]

[For now, breaking up skirmishes is all he can think of]

It's the people that are most discontent. Sure, breaking up mobs and fights is small potatoes -- but I'm afraid the environment would get even more hostile if someone doesn't intervene, even on a street level.

[he's trying his best]