IGP: One misstep has sullied name of entire police force

SEREMBAN: Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain (pic) has urged all police personnel to uphold the image of the force, emphasising the importance of using their authority responsibly and avoiding any misuse under the cover of their uniforms and badges.

He said they should instead gain the confidence and trust of the people while ensuring that the police's image is maintained at the highest level at all times.

"There are many good deeds of the police, but due to one issue – for example the recent case in Perak – the force is immediately punished, despite the other good work carried out by its personnel.

"This advice is also directed to myself, not just to all personnel and officers. Be a good officer to safeguard the good image of the police," he said after the Negri Sembilan police contingent's National Hero Service Medal (PJPN) award ceremony here on Wednesday (Dec 20).

He stressed that police will not hesitate to take action against any personnel regardless of their rank if they commit a criminal offence, or are involved in misconduct or mismanagement.

"We will initiate an investigation for disciplinary action (against those involved). For your information, I signed a suspension order for the DSP (charged with murder) that evening itself," he said.

Razarudin also advised all personnel to maintain their careers well to ensure the welfare and harmony of their families.

"As human beings, once we start a family we must take care of them and our careers too. But if we do not maintain our careers how can we look after our families," he said.

Earlier during the award ceremony, 210 officers, retired police personnel, and police pensioners' next-of-kin were awarded the PJPN.

Of the 210 individuals, 143, who were in service during the emergency era, were present to receive the awards.

A total of 12 next-of-kin also represented elderly or deceased pensioners, while the balance of 55 recipients were police officers currently in service. – Bernama