By: Robert Mutasi
A nominee for the chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, IPOA, has called for the installation of body-worn cameras on police officers and closed-circuit television cameras in police stations to strengthen accountability within the National Police Service.
The nominee told lawmakers that the use of technology would help provide reliable evidence when allegations of police misconduct arise. The cameras would also make it easier to establish what happened during arrests, interrogations and other encounters between police officers and members of the public.
The proposal comes amid continued public concern over police conduct, particularly allegations of excessive use of force, unlawful arrests, deaths in custody and violations of human rights.
The nominee argued that CCTV systems should cover key areas of police stations where suspects and members of the public interact with officers. The footage, according to the proposal, should be securely stored and made available to authorised investigators when required.
Body-worn cameras could also provide an independent record of police operations, reducing disputes over events involving officers and civilians. The technology would be particularly important during arrests, public demonstrations and other high-risk operations.
The nominee said strengthening oversight requires more than investigations after complaints have been made. Preventive measures and better documentation are also necessary to improve police accountability.
The proposed measures would require proper guidelines on how the equipment is used, how footage is stored and who can access the recordings. This would help protect the evidence from interference and ensure that the technology does not violate the privacy rights of citizens.
The call comes as IPOA continues to face pressure to strengthen its oversight of the police service. The authority is mandated to investigate complaints against police officers and monitor police operations.
The use of surveillance technology has previously been proposed as part of wider police reforms. Supporters say cameras can help protect both members of the public and police officers by providing an objective record of incidents.
However, successful implementation would require adequate funding, reliable storage systems and clear procedures for handling the footage.
The nominee’s proposals are expected to form part of a broader discussion on reforms aimed at improving public confidence in the police service and strengthening accountability.
If approved, the chairperson would be expected to work with the authority, the police service and other government agencies to improve oversight and ensure that complaints involving police officers are handled fairly and efficiently.