HRCM Report Reveals Lack of Transparency in Police Rules on Weapons and Force

In a recent policy review conducted by the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM), a concerning revelation has surfaced: crucial regulations concerning the use of weapons and force by the police have not been disclosed to the public.

The HRCM, in its recently published policy review report, has shed light on a significant discrepancy between the existing regulations and those that have been made publicly available. Out of the seven fundamental regulations governing the use of weapons and force, only one has been accessible to the public, a revelation that raises critical questions about transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices, as emphasized in the report.

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The report highlights the role of transparency and accountability within the law enforcement. It specifically draws attention to the operational manual, a comprehensive document outlining intricate guidelines on the judicious use of weapons in various situations.

Additionally, the undisclosed regulations includes vital aspects such as safety protocols, security measures, rules pertaining to weapons possession, and the protocols for surrendering weapons by on-duty police officers. These undisclosed rules are deemed indispensable in ensuring the responsible and accountable application of force by law enforcement personnel.

The HRCM report urges swift action, calling for the formulation and public accessibility of the remaining six regulations concerning the use of weapons and force. This initiative is crucial to bridge the divide between official regulations and public awareness, cultivating an atmosphere of transparency and accountability within law enforcement practices.

The report underscores the primary goal of the HRCM’s policy review: to assess police practices for compliance with human rights standards and establish a transparent framework of rules governing the use of weapons and force by law enforcement agencies.