Allegations of Police brutality disturbing and need to be investigated thoroughly
It’s reassuring that Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has made a commitment that a recent Police brutality allegation would be investigated thoroughly.
It’s absolutely important that this is done to allay public fear and that those allegedly responsible face justice.
We hope that this was an isolated case. But even public perceptions are formed based on just one alleged incident.
When it happens the perception is that brutality is common in the force and as a result public confidence in the Police is eroded.
That is important to understand because it takes the Police a longer time to repair the damage to their image and reputation.
There was one time when there was genuine public concern about Police abusing the rules of engagement with suspects in crime. Officers caught in those incidents could not differentiate between reasonable use of force and unacceptable excessive use of force. Through professional development and training the incidence of brutality has virtually disappeared. But it appears to have resurfaced. Past cases have been brought to court and those found guilty have been convicted and sentenced accordingly.
In light of the latest allegation maybe it’s timely to reinforce the importance of treating suspects within the bounds of the law. Suspects have their rights too to defend themselves if they believe they are innocent. They are entitled to natural justice and be given a fair go. The use of reasonable force must be applied on reasonable grounds. Sometimes the line that separates reasonable grounds and unreasonable grounds can be blurred. Usually what happens reflects the state of the mind or the mental health of the officers involved.
Police officers are trained to operate under all sorts of pressure. What they encounter on the field may be unexpected and their response could reflect the emotions they feel. Mental health is so important that counselling and training should go hand in hand. Mr Tuidravu has spoken about mental health before and there is no doubt he will make sure that his officers are exposed to the necessary training to prepare them for the extreme tests.
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