POLICE officers would be granted extensive powers to secure, search and preserve crime scenes under the proposed Police Bill 2026, including the authority to dig up property, force open locked items and remove parts of buildings and vehicles in the search for evidence.
The powers are outlined in Clauses 83 and 84 of the Bill, which was tabled in Parliament last week.
Under the legislation, the officer in charge of a crime scene, or officers acting under their direction, would be allowed to enter and investigate crime scenes, conduct searches, inspect evidence and seize items believed to be connected to an offence. The Bill authorises officers to open locked objects, take electricity for use during investigations, dig up areas of a crime scene and remove obstructions that may hinder inquiries.
Police would also be able to remove wall and ceiling linings, floors, vehicle panels and fittings if required as part of an investigation.
The proposed law further allows officers to photograph crime scenes and seize any item that may provide evidence of a crime. However, there is a safeguard on actions that could cause major structural damage.
“If it is necessary to do anything at the place that may cause structural damage, the thing must not be done unless a judge issues a crime scene order,” the Bill states.
The proposed legislation also strengthens police authority to control access to crime scenes.
Officers will be able to use reasonable force to secure an area, prevent unauthorised people, animals or vehicles from entering, and remove anyone who interferes with an investigation.
Police can also stop vehicles from being moved if they form part of a crime scene and detain and search individuals suspected of attempting to remove or tamper with evidence.
Another provision allows officers to direct property owners or occupiers to maintain electricity, water and other utility services needed for investigations.
