Sharjah Ruler Issues New Law For Police And Security Force Reorganisation

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has enacted a law to reorganise the police and security forces in Sharjah. This law establishes that the force will comprise regular bodies with the ruler as its supreme head. It includes military personnel such as officers and non-commissioned officers, as well as civilian employees.

The primary objectives of the force are to maintain public security, order, and morals while providing reassurance to society members in Sharjah. It also aims to protect lives, honour, money, property, vital facilities, and public utilities. Additionally, the force seeks to promote respect for the law among community members and activate community roles in crime prevention.

The law outlines that each regular body within the force will have its own flag and logo. The force members are subject to existing legislation in the emirate. The responsibilities include combating crimes, preventing their occurrence, and arresting perpetrators according to local procedures. They also regulate traffic rules and raise awareness about respecting legislation.

Military ranks within the force are clearly defined under this law. Officers' ranks range from Lieutenant to Lieutenant General. Non-commissioned officers hold ranks from Sergeant to Assistant Officer. Individual ranks start from New Policeman up to First Corporal. Members with lower ranks must follow those with higher ones; if ranks are equal, seniority determines authority.

The Commander-in-Chief or director manages any regular body under this law's provisions. This individual is responsible for performing duties before the Ruler or a delegate. They propose general policies and strategic plans for achieving force objectives and present them for approval by the Executive Council.

The President oversees spending from the government-approved budget for the force's operations. They can establish organisational units with approval from the ruler or delegate. Additionally, they form committees and work teams affiliated with the force to determine competencies and work systems.

Use of Force Regulations

Military members have rights to use necessary force when carrying out duties. They may carry weapons due to their position but must adhere strictly to guidelines on usage. Weapons can be used for lawful self-defence or protecting others' lives or property during arrests if resistance occurs.

Shooting is only allowed when it is essential to avert danger after verifying its occurrence. Warning shots should be fired first whenever possible before aiming at non-lethal targets unless there's fear of death or serious injury.

Judicial Police Authority

Judicial police officers include police officers, non-commissioned officers, and personnel concerning crimes within their jurisdictions related to job duties per Federal Decree-Law No. (38) of 2022 compliance requirements.

The President of Sharjah's Judicial Council may grant judicial police status beyond those mentioned earlier regarding jurisdiction-related crimes following applicable laws in this regard.

This comprehensive reorganisation aims at enhancing safety measures across Sharjah while ensuring effective management through structured leadership roles within its police forces under His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's guidance.

With inputs from WAM