LETTER | It is heartening to note that the police are pushing the government for body cameras requirement to be implemented as soon as possible. It augurs well for transparency. 

However, getting these cameras worn by the relevant police operational personnel such as all patrolling and investigative personnel will not be effective without an independent body to enquire into any allegations of abuse of power, corruption, misconduct etc. 

The Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC) must complement this approach for an expected increase in allegations towards accountability and responsibility. 

An independent body such as the IPCMC can work both ways to either dispel or confirm allegations. It will in the long run help establish a more professional police service. I have no doubt the police will rise to the occasion in adapting quickly to it.

Leaving the allegations to internal police probes will not cut it as the outcome of any conclusion will be perceived as biased by many. This is even more imperative now especially in view of the revelations made by Abdul Hamid Bador the ex-IGP on the alleged cartel within the police force apart from the alleged interference of politicians in police administrative matters.

It is opined that the new IGP has to be at the forefront in making the police service not only transparent but totally accountable and responsible to the criminal justice system without the involvement of the executive. 

The workings of preventive laws will not help in the endeavour to make all police actions to be perceived as fair and firm in tandem with due process within the ambits of the rule of law in the strictest judicial interpretation. 

It is undoubtedly a tedious affair to gather admissible evidence from the time investigations commence especially after an arrest takes place. Time, then, is of essence. 

It must then be emphasised that adhering strictly to procedural law and allowing the criminal justice system to act as a transparent check and balance throughout the initial stage of all investigations will raise police credibility and ultimately win the hearts and minds of all concerned. 

Notwithstanding the fact that evidence procured will be able to withstand the test of veracity and credibility throughout the investigation and prosecution stage. 

This will then lead to a conviction that can withstand all the tiers of appeal. This should be the ultimate objective of police work in the basic function of fighting crime and keeping public order. 

The means used must become judicially acceptable within the realms of natural justice. The onus is then upon the police to impress upon the legislative branch the need to enhance their tools of criminal investigations specifically in the area of serious crimes involving hardcore criminals.

Body cameras undoubtedly will put added pressure on the men on the ground. The police must take heed and be prepared for public scrutiny. They must go back to the basics and ensure their personnel are prepared physically and mentally for this approach. 

Unpreparedness and a lackadaisical attitude can bring more damage to the image of the men in blue.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.