Criminal Investigation and Reporting Procedures
Criminal Investigation and Reporting Procedures
This domain tests the lawful start of an investigation, case recording, arrest, evidence handling, and fair process. The Penal Code 2014 defines offences; the Criminal Procedure Code 2016 governs arrest, search, seizure, remand, and investigation. The Constitution protects the rights of arrested persons.
Core rules and concepts
- Receive and record the first report promptly, even if the complainant is unsure or the offence is not yet clear. Record time, place, people, and what was said.
- Preserve the scene and evidence. Use clean gloves, packaging, labels, and a chain-of-custody record for each item.
- An arrest requires lawful grounds. Inform the person of the reason, caution them, and respect rights to silence, counsel, and medical attention.
- Bring an arrested person before a court within the constitutional time limit; do not hold them for investigation convenience.
- Statements and notes must be accurate and contemporaneous. Do not alter original notes; corrections should be dated and signed.
Worked example
A homeowner reports a burglary. The officer records the initial report, asks what is missing, preserves the point of entry, photographs the scene, identifies witnesses, and collects CCTV before it overwrites. A suspect is later arrested on reasonable grounds, cautioned, and brought before court within the required time. The reasoning is that the case is strongest when the first hour is documented and the evidence chain is unbroken.
Traps
- Contaminating the scene by walking through it or handling items casually.
- Writing notes later and presenting them as contemporaneous.
- Treating hearsay as proof of the offence.
- Failing to record information that may help the defence, which damages fairness and credibility.