Gearing towards community policing

26 June 2009

Four police officers have been sent to Japan as part of setting up a pilot community policing programme.

The officers will learn and observe the crime prevention activities that have been carried out in Japan. Upon their arrival back home, they will submit their study findings to the cabinet.

If the proposal is accepted, the community policing programme will be launched in Thimphu based on the recommendations of consultants.

According to the Chief of Police, Lt. Colonel Kipchu Namgyel, community policing will bring the community and police together. Besides, it is aimed at unemployed youth and housewives who can be involved.

Community policing or neighborhood policing is a policing strategy and philosophy based on the notion that community interaction and support can help control crime and reduce fear. The community members help identify suspects, detain vandals and bring problems to the attention of police. It is practised in many countries.

This visit to Japan has been supported by the National Commission for Women and Children, UNICEF and JICA.

BY PHUNTSHO WANGMO

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