82 SUHAKAM Report of Public Inquiry into the Incidents During and After the Public Assembly of 28 April 2012 though clearly such activities would have violated some municipal rules, regulations or by-laws. The Panel takes an extremely serious view of the failure of the authorities to act in the face of such blatant violations of their rules and regulations. The failure to act suggests to the Panel not only of a lack of will to act but possibly even, bias or condonation on their part. Such inaction on their part could also encourage violations and lead to breaches of peace or even undermine the powers of the authorities concerned. 7.17 The Panel observes that there was also a lack of follow up of all the police reports lodged by the public. As of January 2013, none of the police reports that were lodged by some of the witnesses have been successfully determined by PDRM. 7.18 The Panel also observes that there is no specific requirement for the police personnel to submit a written report after their duty on 28 April. Not all police witnesses submitted reports after the assembly. Recommendations 7.19 The Panel urges the authorities to act professionally, impartially and fairly at all times in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities and not to be seen favouring or being partial to any particular party or group. 7.20 In addition, the Panel urges the authorities especially high ranking officers to exercise caution when issuing statements that may be interpreted as condoning or advocating any infringement of human rights and which contravenes any law in the country. 7.21 The Panel recommends strongly that PDRM conduct and complete its investigations on the police reports lodged by the public, even though the reports were in relation to acts committed by police personnel. Although there is no specific timeline for the completion of any investigations, PDRM must act expeditiously to conclude its investigation, more so when it involves their own police personnel so as to avoid allegations of bias and lack of transparency. 7.22 The Panel also recommends PDRM to review its SOP and make compulsory the reporting of its personnel after performing their duty which details all actions taken during the assignment and in his case, after the assembly. This is to ensure professionalism and all personnel are accountable for their actions.

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