Impartial probe by police force against its own members is difficult to sell to the public as evidenced by Police probe police? Puh-leeze .

It is an inherent conflict of interest for the police to be entrusted to investigate their very own because esprit de corps naturally prevail within the force. Bias in investigations must not only be averted. The possibility of bias, too, must be 'seen' to be avoided.

While Anti-Corruption Agency probes police corruption, there is a need, in the interest of public accountability, for another separate institution to investigate alleged misconduct by police officers, review critical incidents such as police pursuit and use of force, and review policy and procedure to ensure department compliance with good police practice and compliance with laws.

Now doesn't that sound like some kind of Internal Affairs Department in the US? And why should it not be the case?

With "the current 'monkey-see, monkey-do' philosophy of our present government" (as Charles Moreira so elegantly described it in Smart schools don't need teachers? , if the US has an Internal Affairs Department, why can't we too have it?

The investigating officers of this institution should meet exacting academic and ethical qualifications criteria and then specially trained for their work. Some of these officers may also be quietly 'planted' within the police force to act as informants.

The body should also maintain a website for public to send in their complaints, tips and leads on police abuse of power.

Such an institution may report directly to the Home Affairs minister (bypassing police chief) who in turn reports to Parliament. The police should meanwhile raise its recruitment standards, remuneration and other benefits such as recognition and rewards for good service and conduct.