Editorial | A truly independent inquiry into police conduct is best way forward
- Abrupt departure of overseas experts from the panel currently examining complaints underlines the need to set up a commission with real powers
The watchdog tasked to examine police actions in the city’s protests has been dealt a blow. In what amounts to a vote of no confidence in its work, the experts brought in from overseas to enhance the Independent Police Complaints Council’s probe decided to “stand aside” after their calls for more powers had not been met. The decision has damaged confidence in the study.
Those who are critical of the police never had faith in the investigation anyway. The council’s remit is restricted to reviewing only complaints handled by the police themselves and cannot initiate its own investigation or summon witnesses or subpoena documents.
At stake is not just the council’s image and credibility. Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor has used the study to ward off the political pressure for a judicial inquiry into alleged police brutality.