BETWEEN JANUARY 1999 and May 14, this year, 55 policemen have been arrested and charged for criminal activities following rulings from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The arrests were made after intensive investigations conducted by the Bureau of Special Investigations (BSI). Of the number, 41 were charged in connection with various shooting incidents. In addition, eight others who were charged, have deserted the police force, while six were charged under the Corruption and Prevention Act.
Among the list of persons charged over the period, were 37 police constables, seven district constables, seven sub-officers and a Superintendent. While some of these cases are still before the court, several of the officers charged were acquitted.
Between 1999 and December 2000, of the 291 fatal shootings committed by members of the security forces, BSI detectives were able to close the files in 99 of the cases. All were sent to the DPP for his ruling.
Some of the cases were disposed off, while others are still at Coroner's Court.
