HYDERABAD: The novel coronavirus induced revolutionary changes not only in the lifestyle of the residents but it has also redefined the manner police approach a crime scene, interrogate an accused and nab a culprit.
A few days back, Cyberabad commissioner VC Sajjanar instructed cops to wear personal protection equipment (PPE) when they visit a mortuary and handle accident cases.
“As a number of police personnel are contracting Covid-19, commissioner’s message regarding PPEs was shared with all the staff members, especially those who are with the patrolling team and those visiting mortuaries,” said a senior police official from Cyberabad.
Another tricky issue faced by the police is regarding the health status of the accused and visitors.
Cops are facing a tough time as they have to take precautions like maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, using sanitizers while questioning as well as receiving complaints.
In a bid to reduce the workload of police, who are already burdened with the pandemic situation, the authorities eased the norms and now only the accused, related to offences that may result in imprisonment of more than seven years, are being produced before the magistrate.
“Before we take an accused to a magistrate, the doctors have to certify that he is not a Covid-19 patient. Only then the accused will be admitted into the state prison. For all other minor offences, police themselves are granting bail. This has been a part of the Standard Operating Procedure due to pandemic,” a Hyderabad police officer said.
The incident in Warangal, a few days back, explains the challenges faced by cops while dealing with a Covid-19 suspect. The escort policemen, who accompanied an accused to MGM hospital, faced a torrid time.
The accused gave a slip to the police and though they got a chance to nab him, they feared to touch him as he is a Covid-19 suspect.
Till now, at least 10 Telangana policemen succumbed to the virus in the line of duty.
One positive aspect is that the movement of interstate gangs has come down. With several restrictions on travel, gangs are finding it difficult to come to the state. Only local criminals are involved in crimes now.
A few days back, Cyberabad commissioner VC Sajjanar instructed cops to wear personal protection equipment (PPE) when they visit a mortuary and handle accident cases.
“As a number of police personnel are contracting Covid-19, commissioner’s message regarding PPEs was shared with all the staff members, especially those who are with the patrolling team and those visiting mortuaries,” said a senior police official from Cyberabad.
Another tricky issue faced by the police is regarding the health status of the accused and visitors.
Cops are facing a tough time as they have to take precautions like maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, using sanitizers while questioning as well as receiving complaints.
In a bid to reduce the workload of police, who are already burdened with the pandemic situation, the authorities eased the norms and now only the accused, related to offences that may result in imprisonment of more than seven years, are being produced before the magistrate.
“Before we take an accused to a magistrate, the doctors have to certify that he is not a Covid-19 patient. Only then the accused will be admitted into the state prison. For all other minor offences, police themselves are granting bail. This has been a part of the Standard Operating Procedure due to pandemic,” a Hyderabad police officer said.
The incident in Warangal, a few days back, explains the challenges faced by cops while dealing with a Covid-19 suspect. The escort policemen, who accompanied an accused to MGM hospital, faced a torrid time.
The accused gave a slip to the police and though they got a chance to nab him, they feared to touch him as he is a Covid-19 suspect.
Till now, at least 10 Telangana policemen succumbed to the virus in the line of duty.
One positive aspect is that the movement of interstate gangs has come down. With several restrictions on travel, gangs are finding it difficult to come to the state. Only local criminals are involved in crimes now.
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