Chittagong metro police to introduce body cameras

In an attempt to ensure transparency and accountability, Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP) are going to introduce body cameras for policemen.  

The CMP has already sent a proposal in this regard to police headquarters. Initially, patrol and traffic personnel will be brought under the new initiative.

A body camera is a wearable audio and video recording system used to record events in which law enforcers are involved. The cameras are usually worn on the torso, attached to the officer's uniform. Body cameras will record the law enforcement officials’ interactions with people and gather video evidence at crime scenes, which the officials will not be able to delete themselves.

There are many allegations that police harass people in the name of searches at check-posts, demanding money after placing yaba pills or other drugs in their pockets and confiscating valuables from their possession but not recording them properly in the seizure list.

Crime analysts said that the new initiative will bring about a positive change in the policing and transparency will be ensured if all police check-posts are brought under coverage of body cameras and CCTV.

CMP Commissioner Saleh Md Tanvir said that the introduction of the body cameras will ensure accountability and transparency in the policing activities.

“Sometimes sweeping and false allegations are made against the police. The introduction of the new initiative will act as a defense for the police members,” said the commissioner.