What powers will the new Prevention of Crime Board possess?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Prevention of Crime Board Will Have Powers of Detention Without Trial

The proposed amendments to the Prevention of Crime Act (PCA) will introduce a new Prevention of Crime Board with the authority to detain individuals for up to two years without recourse to a trial. This measure is part of a broader legislative effort to reinstate certain detention powers, which the government frames as a form of transformation rather than a regression from earlier reforms.
Authority for Extended Detention

The newly established Prevention of Crime Board is slated to possess the significant power to detain individuals without a trial. This detention period can extend up to two years, a substantial increase in the state's capacity for preventive detention. This move represents a notable shift in the legal landscape concerning crime prevention and suspect apprehension.
Legislative Context and Previous Reforms

This proposed legislation comes after the government abolished the Internal Security Act (ISA) 1960 and Emergency Ordinance (EO) laws in 2011, which previously allowed for detention without charge. The current administration, through the tabling of this Bill and others amending related laws such as the Penal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code, appears to be consolidating governmental powers. The home minister has characterised these changes as a transformation, drawing a parallel to the Prime Minister's national transformation plan.
Introduction of Electronic Monitoring

In addition to the board's detention powers, the Bill also seeks to incorporate a mandatory electronic monitoring device for suspects released under conditional terms. This measure, introduced by Putrajaya in the preceding month, signifies a technological component to the government's evolving approach to crime control and offender management.
Government's Stance on the Amendments

The home minister has actively defended the proposed amendments, refuting claims that the government is backtracking on its reform commitments. He has indicated that further details regarding the Prevention of Crime Bill would be elaborated upon during its second reading, expressing an openness to consider input from opposition Members of Parliament. This approach suggests a deliberative process, albeit one that aims to reinstate specific pre-existing detention authorities.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What powers will the new Prevention of Crime Board possess?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends