US, UK experts to aid Bahrain in reforming police and security forces
\nNovember 29, 2011 – By Jim Kouri – examiner.com<\/p>\n
The Arab nation of Bahrain’s leader, King Hamad, released a royal proclamation that his kingdom’s National Security Agency (NSA) would undergo major reforms.<\/p>\n
Ideally, according to Hamad, the NSA will confine its roles to gathering intelligence, protecting national security, and while police officers will deal with arrests and legal actions.<\/p>\n
The reforms are part of the report and recommendation of Bahrain’s Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) which issued a comprehensive report last week stating government’s shortcomings during the civil unrest in February and March 2011.<\/p>\n
King Hamad on Monday issued his decree thereby amending articles of decree No.14 issued in 2002 which established the NSA.<\/p>\n
Under the amendments, the NSA is charged with collecting intelligence information, detecting and uncovering detrimental activities related to spying, collaboration with foreign countries, and counterterrorism in order to protect Bahrain’s national security, institutions and systems.<\/p>\n
The NSA will turn over cases that require arrests to the kingdom’s police officials for legal action under the provisions of the law on penal procedures.<\/p>\n
The Interior Minister, who commands the police, noted that Bahrain is in the final stages to sign contracts with a number of highly qualified US and UK experts and specialists to assist in developing police proficiency on the part of his officers.<\/p>\n
In addition, a new Code of Professional Conduct for police officers is being drafted that would include details on how a police officer should perform his duties according to international and local legal criteria and rules.<\/p>\n
Bahraini government formed a National Commission to follow up on the implementations of the BICI recommendations. Commission members include a minister, businessmen, lawmakers, lawyers and a human rights activist.
\nBahrain’s King Hamid is attempting to reform his security and police forces.Bahrain’s King Hamid is attempting to reform his security and police forces.
\n…source<\/a><\/p>\n