Rahayu Mahzam on Criminal Procedure (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill

Police officers may be allowed to search anyone suspected of an arrestable offence without a warrant, if they have reason to believe that the person is in possession of relevant evidence. This is one of the proposals under a Bill that was read for a second time in Parliament on Monday (Feb 5). Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Law Rahayu Mahzam explained why the amendment is a “practical” one that will allow for more effective police investigations. The Bill also proposes empowering the police to search suspects at the point of arrest to detect and remove dangerous items from them. The powers of certain non-police law enforcement officers may also be expanded. For example, immigration and narcotics officers would be allowed to pursue an arrested person who has escaped from any lawful custody. Ms Rahayu said this will enable Home Team departments to work more effectively together. She also outlined proposed amendments on criminal disclosure and improving efficiency in court processes.