IPOA to forward police misconduct case files to DPP, vows no cover-up

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has announced that several investigation files will be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Monday, as it affirmed its commitment to accountability and transparency in dealing with police misconduct.

Speaking during a press briefing, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Isaack Hassan stated that the authority would not allow any form of cover-up and would not be intimidated in the course of its work.

“We have a mandate to serve the public, and we shall not back down. We will let the investigations speak for themselves. There will be no cover-up and no intimidation,” he said.

The authority further revealed that only 25 percent of complaints received come from within the police service, while the overwhelming majority—75 percent—are from members of the public, underscoring a persistent trust deficit between citizens and law enforcement.

Commenting on the recent controversial incident at the Central Police Station, the IPOA chairperson expressed deep concern, describing the situation as unprecedented and troubling.

"I was very disturbed when I visited the scene at Central Police Station. I’ve never seen such a scene. It was a mistake to have the Inspector General (IG) present there in that manner. It should not have happened the way it did. We owe the public an apology,” she said.

On the widely circulated images of police officers appearing alongside suspected goons, the authority maintained that an active investigation is ongoing.

“I cannot comment much on that matter at this stage, but I can confirm that IPOA is investigating,” Hassan added.

The authority reiterated its call for cooperation from all stakeholders as it continues to push for police accountability and justice for victims of abuse.