Use video recordings to record statements by law enforcement officers, say MPs

SINGAPORE: The issue of using video recordings by law enforcement officers when taking statements from accused persons and witnesses was brought up in Parliament on Friday.

MP for Bishan—Toa Payoh GRC Hri Kumar Nair alluded to recent high—profile cases where court time was taken up to determine if their evidence was properly recorded or accurately represented.

He added that using video recordings will also help cut down costs and court trial times.

MP for Aljunied GRC Sylvia Lim added that this also offers protection to law enforcement officers.

"Footage of the statement recording will show the demeanour of the accused and the recording officer, to enable the court to come to certain conclusions about whether the accused’s will was sapped through sleep deprivation or was not in the proper frame of mind during the recording," she said.

Ms Indranee Rajah, Senior Minister of State for Law, said: "The issue of video recording is an operational matter relating to police investigations. It comes more directly under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). MinLaw understands from MHA that there are currently no plans to introduce video recording for the taking of statements.

"MHA’s position is that the issue of video recording as well as other operational issues should be looked at in the following manner. There should be a fair system which seeks to ensure that crimes are solved, and the system should also seek to ensure that the rights of the accused are protected. If an accused wishes to challenge the statement given by him, there are clear avenues available today."

— CNA/de