Muda Revives Call For Ipcmc After Top Cops Turn Their Backs On Internal Arbiter

---

 


The decision of two top cops to shun the Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (Jips) underscores the need for an independent police watchdog, said the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda).
In a statement today, Muda information chief Zaidel Baharuddin (above) said that the comments made by Johor police chief Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and inspector-general of police Abdul Hamid Bador on Jips were "shocking".
"Both individuals clearly showed that there is a need for a check-and-balance body outside the police service mechanism," said Zaidel.
"This body needs to be independent of the police and it must be empowered to investigate and take disciplinary action."
Zaidel said the government should reconsider the Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) Bill in lieu of the Independent Police Misconduct and Complaints Commission (IPCMC) Bill.
The Perikatan Nasional-led government withdrew the IPCMC Bill last year - which was introduced by the preceding Pakatan Harapan government - and replaced it with the IPCC Bill.
The IPCC Bill prescribes significantly fewer powers, most notably that the IPCC will not be able to take action against errant police personnel and must refer investigation results to the Police Force Commission.
Two days ago, Hamid told the press there were several former Jips officers who "passed favours to investigators" by letting them off the hook for disciplinary complaints.
A day prior, Ayob Khan, who is leading investigations against a group of police personnel conspiring with criminals, said it involved Jips.
Ayob Khan vowed that the corrupt police personnel will be arrested and charged.
"I will not just leave this matter to the Jips (Integrity and Standards Compliance Department). I want to take action for the offence of organised crime which, for me, is the best way," he said. - Mkini

---