IPOH: Body-worn cameras used by Road Transport Department (JPJ) enforcement officers are not allowed to be switched off at will, as the devices are subject to continuous monitoring.
State JPJ deputy director Mohd Azmi Jaafar said the use of the cameras follows strict procedures and officers are not permitted to deactivate them without valid reasons.
“From the start of duty in the morning, the camera must be switched on and can only be turned off after the officer has completed the assignment.
“There is a specific procedure even to switch it off, and it is not permitted unless the officer enters a sensitive area. Under normal circumstances, the camera cannot be turned off,” he told reporters after the Ops Khas Nine Offences roadblock at Jalan Kuala Kangsar–Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah yesterday.
Mohd Azmi added that the cameras are monitored in real time at JPJ headquarters.
“If an officer switches it off without authorisation, the monitoring team at headquarters will immediately receive a signal. Officers cannot turn it off at their discretion and this must be clearly understood,” he said.
He said the use of body-worn cameras is intended to record all interactions between enforcement officers and road users.
“These recordings are meant not only to protect the rights of road users, but also to safeguard enforcement officers from misunderstandings, unfounded accusations and allegations of misconduct.
“All recordings will be handled in accordance with the standard operating procedures set by headquarters,” he added.
Mohd Azmi said JPJ began using the cameras in November last year as part of a pilot project, with 14 units currently deployed.
Of these, eight are used by Ipoh JPJ, four by Taiping JPJ and two at the Kuala Kangsar enforcement station.
When asked whether the cameras are used only during roadblocks or also during patrols, Mohd Azmi said they are worn by enforcement officers at several strategic locations.
“These include officers conducting field operations,” he said, adding that the cameras are also used by officers stationed at JPJ counters and driving test centres.
“This allows us to observe how our officers interact with road users, counter customers and driving test candidates.”
On whether more cameras will be provided to officers on duty, Mohd Azmi said further procurement is planned.
“This is still a pilot project. I understand there may be plans to procure additional units,” he said.
