Bodycam use will have a positive impact, says senior cop

KUALA LUMPUR: The use of Body Worn Cameras (BWC) by police officers and personnel in the field will have a positive impact and outcome on the issue of wrongdoing and integrity, says Comm Datuk Wan Hassan Wan Ahmad

The Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director said the cameras could record any wrongdoing and be deployed to locations.

"Each BWC user will be equipped with an ID while on duty.

"It does not have a delete recording function, and it will be able to record video and audio for up to eight hours," he said when contacted on Wednesday (Jan 31).

Comm Wan Hassan said the recordings of BWC could also be used as proof of a suspect's verbal communication and action.

"Its use will be compulsory while on duty, and failure to adhere to the instruction to wear it will be a disciplinary offence," he said.

Comm Wan Hassan said the BWC would not only be able to curb wrongdoing and integrity problems among MPV and URB personnel, but it could also protect them from unwarranted criticism of their action while fulfilling their duties.

"The standard operating procedure (SOP) for using BWC has been completed and is being finalised before it can be distributed to all officers nationwide.

"The SOP is important to ensure that the instruction to use BWC fully is adhered to," he said.