The Parliament of the Maldives has opened the Police Service Bill for public comments and suggestions.
The Police Service Bill was submitted by Parliamentarian Hassan Latheef, on behalf of the government. The bill is currently under review by Parliamentary Committee on National Security Services. The parliament announced individuals who wish to submit any comments and suggestions regarding the bill are required to send an email or a written document to the Parliament Secretariat before 1400hrs on June 30.
The Police Service Bill includes additional powers to be granted to Maldives Police Service, as well as the distribution of responsibilities and authorities within the police institution and standards to be maintained in terms of education, training and discipline. Some of the important points in the bill include the allocation of 7 regions in addition to Male' City to implement a decentralised system for police operations, with a regional police commissioner appointed at deputy commissioner level.
The bill also mandates the formation of a 7-member board to oversee appointment and dismissal of the Commissioner of Police. Furthermore, the bill states all investigations on offenses committed by the police must be carried out by National Integrity Commission (NIC), rather than conducting an internal investigation. The bill also prohibits the use of lethal weapons during police operations.