Police Reform

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In new police reform measures, the police will be banned from using water cannons against protestors. Under the new rules, vehicle blockades and the forceful dispersal of crowds will also be prohibited. Here’s more.

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A police reform committee has announced a list of recommendations on guaranteeing freedom of assembly and demonstration. Maximum restraint of police force is advised at peaceful and nonviolent protests and rallies. Water sprinkler trucks equipped with water cannons will be banned from use. The exception is that they may be used only during major riots or when key state infrastructures are under attack. The water pressure level will also be sharply lowered. The provincial police chief is the official in charge of ordering the use of water cannons. Vehicle blockades that prevent cars from passing will also be removed from now on. Instead, police lines will be better utilized to encourage the utmost safety at rallies. Also, collection of evidence, which has been controversial for reasons of excessive photo taking, will also be subject to checks. Gathering evidence at protest sites will be limited to urgent cases and when preserving evidence is required for a criminal investigation. The reform committee has also advised that crowds may be forcefully dispersed only when a real threat has occurred. The National Police Agency has said it will accept all the recommendations issued by the committee and work to guarantee freedom of assembly and demonstration as much as possible.