Police authorities and public prosecutions in three emirates have activated remote interrogation and investigation systems that will help suspects to appear in criminal proceedings virtually. The move is part of precautionary measures to curb the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Major-General Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of the Sharjah Police, said the system was put to trial on Thursday at Wasit police station and then extended to all police stations and criminal investigation departments (CID). “Public prosecutors have begun using the Remote Investigation System, which enables directing questions and listening to the defendant’s statements through visual communication techniques. The police have prepared rooms equipped with the integrated electronic system to ensure fair investigation and to speed up the process without the need for the defendant to appear at the police station and prosecution office.”
Anwar Al Harmoudi, attorney-general of the Sharjah Public Prosecution, said the remote investigation and interrogation systems would ensure the safety and protection of all parties – decrease both the steps in the judicial process and the time needed by interrogators and investigators. “The smart system will allow prosecutors to carry out investigations through conference calls, rather than having to carry case files.”
Major-General Sultan Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-chief of the Ajman Police, said the police are cooperating with the Ajman Public Prosecution, to apply remote investigation procedures. “The police stations and police headquarters are linked with the public prosecutors with a visual system. The accused can be investigated from a distance without being transferred to police facilities or courthouses.”
Major-General Mohammed Ahmed bin Ghanem Al Kaabi, Commander-in-Chief of the Fujairah Police, said the initiative includes enabling inmates to make their statements in front of police officers, prosecutors and judicial authorities. “The system contribute to facilitating procedures and speeding the trial and save time in line with international quality practices. It also provides human and material resources, reducing the risk ratio and embarrassment of arrested and convicted persons while transferring them from one place to another.”
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