The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has issued a circular detailing the procedures for recording and investigating complaints under Section 109 of the Police Ordinance. The directive underscores the importance of accountability, systematic documentation, and strict adherence to legal protocols to ensure justice and fairness in handling complaints.
The circular addresses concerns that some police officers have refused to record complaints under various pretexts, such as the incident occurring in a different police jurisdiction, the matter being categorized as a civil dispute, or alleged instructions from higher authorities to reject the complaint. The IGP firmly clarifies that such practices are unacceptable.
Referring to Section 107 (1) of the Criminal Procedure Code and Section 56 of the Police Ordinance, the IGP reiterates that recording and investigating complaints is a fundamental duty of police officers. Failure to fulfil this responsibility, the circular warns, may result in disciplinary and legal action against the officers concerned, in accordance with Section 82 (a) of the Police Ordinance.
