Unfortunately I didn't actually see what happened, but it sounds like a thread was posted, replies were made that devolved into trolling, and the entire thread was locked wholesale without the OP getting an answer. Then a repeating feedback loop was created as subsequent threads were made to get that answer and of course, threads were locked for duplication and/or discussing moderation (first thread locked, continued BZZT! discussing moderation, etc.)

What probably should have happened was the moderators should have taken the time to remove or edit the offensive posts and make a post reminding people to politely stay on topic. Afterwards if the thread continued on course it could be locked wholesale and the forum users would not have much of a leg to stand on if they opposed the action.

I also feel there is a language barrier issue and the 'personal attack' angle of locking or editing posts is, quite frankly, used too liberally. Combined with discussing forum moderation, it seems to be quite an effective way to curb any open criticism whatsoever, which I feel is a bad precedent to set.

Having individuals file petitions which in all likelihood will be ignored individually rather than having a community discussion is alot like Walmart being able to fight discrimination cases on a case by case basis rather than a class action basis. The results are the same, anyway....but that is purely my opinion on the matter.