President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of Maldives recently called for modernizing and evolving law enforcement in response to the changing tactics and devices used by criminals. He made the remarks during the opening of the Police Research and Innovation Conference, where he emphasized the need to promote and enhance community-based policing to build a strong network with members of the general public, institutions, professionals, and security experts.
According to President Solih, policing faces major challenges in modern times due to the emergence of new technologies and inventions. Although these advancements provide convenience, they also present social and criminal challenges that require law enforcement to adapt and evolve. Criminals are changing their tactics and outlooks, and their devices and plans to evade arrest are evolving too. As such, law enforcement needs to increase its vigilance and preparedness to counter the emerging threats.
President Solih stressed the importance of providing police with modern resources and equipment to meet the changing security landscape. He cited the deployment of body-worn cameras for frontline police officers and the forthcoming use of tasers to protect both officers and criminals when facing dangerous situations. He emphasized that tasers are not meant to attack criminals but to ensure the safety of both parties.
In addition, President Solih highlighted the need to protect police officers’ mental and physical health as they put their lives on the line to defend the people. He called for dialogue and academic research to ensure that the modernization of policing is effective and fruitful.
The Police Research and Innovation Conference featured the presentation of ten academic papers on various topics related to modernizing and enhancing policing. The conference provided a platform for experts, professionals, and academics to share their knowledge and experiences and to discuss innovative solutions to the challenges facing law enforcement in the modern world.
