Several council enforcement officers in Selangor have been using body cameras during their operations.
LOCAL authorities in Selangor that have equipped enforcement teams with body cameras have reported fewer altercations between officers and the public.
Selangor local government committee chairman Ng Sze Han said officers wearing body cameras had no issues so far.
“The most significant change is that there has been less argument between officers and members of the public,” he said.
“Secondly, with the cameras, we know the location of the officers and the places they have been to, so this prevents any abuse of power and misconduct.
“And of course, the footage can be used as evidence in court.”
He added that officers were more accountable now.
Ng said based on the success of the body camera pilot project adopted by several local authorities two years ago, the state now hoped other councils would follow suit.
Shah Alam City Council, Subang Jaya City Council, Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), Kuala Selangor Municipal Council and Hulu Selangor Municipal Council are the local authorities which have introduced the use of body cameras for their enforcement officers.
“Ideally, we would like to see all Selangor local councils use body cameras,” said Ng.
“MBPJ has ordered more, which is good; they have some 500 enforcement officers,’’ he said.
He disclosed that to date, there were 350 body cameras being used by nine local councils.
“Local authorities that have been upgraded to city status with high population density are using the cameras.
“There are some that have not adopted the programme, like Sabak Bernam District Council.
“It is the responsibility of the councils to get the cameras, because it is important,” he added.
Each body camera costs under RM1,000.
StarMetro reported on Jan 9 that more than 100 Kuala Lumpur City Hall enforcement officers would be wearing body cameras when on duty, to prevent bribery and threats.
The footage recorded can also be key in resolving disputes, which may occur during enforcement action.
