The Inspector General of Police and a team of senior officers visited the Peace Secretariat today to discuss issues that had arisen in the course of SCOPP discussions with community representatives in several districts. Issues that had arisen in consultations with regard to confidence building were also discussed.

In the course of extremely helpful comments that indicated clear recognition of the need for the police to maintain public confidence, the IGP made clear the need for due procedures had been clearly communicated to all members of the force. It was recognized however that lapses could occur, and it was agreed that disciplinary measures would be taken in such instances. The IGP mentioned the importance of educating the public as to these procedures and their rights, and suggested that publicizing them would help.

In particular it was agreed that, while the need for police questioning was unquestionable in the current security situation, this should be done with warrants or on production of police ID. The public had a right to demand to see such ID.

It was also agreed that the established procedure of recording any cases of detention should be implemented fully, and that information about such detention should be conveyed through the regional authorities to the IGP’s office in Colombo.

The IGP mentioned measures that had been taken to improve Tamil proficiency of serving policemen, with mandatory requirements for promotion. Recruitment of retired Tamil speakers to assist with police work had been initiated, but numbers were insufficient. It was agreed that this should be promoted, and also that measures to encourage the recruitment of minorities into the forces should be actively pursued. It was also agreed that, while training in procedures and human rights had taken place, it could be more productive if done through simulations and other participatory activities.

It was also agreed that, in view of difficulties about recording complaints, in affected areas these could be done through citizens’ committees that received recognized status from the force. SCOPP agreed to encourage the establishment of such committees, through its local ceasefire monitors and otherwise.