Former inspector-general of police Musa Hassan has urged the government to establish a council consisting of the country’s former top cops in an effort to further strengthen the police force.

This, he said, was in light of greater challenges faced today, especially with the advent of social media.

“I am confident that with such a council, former IGPs can, in a way, assist the police in facing today's challenges especially those involving slander which can tarnish the police force’s image.

“There are irresponsible quarters who spread false information in relation to the police and those who want to create bad perceptions of the police," he said in a statement today.

He cited instances involving video recordings which had purportedly shown the police in a bad light when "the reality was far from it".

Slamming quarters who had taken advantage of the existence of social media, Musa said they have incited and demeaned the duties of the police.

This, in turn, had led to decreased confidence of the rakyat in the men in blue.

Speaking on behalf of his predecessors, Musa said they felt responsible for ensuring that the police force continues to be trusted by the people.

"The council will provide explanations and will defend the image of the police because we believe that the police are still strong and will fulfill their duty with integrity."

The council, he added, could also be used as a platform to spread awareness on the dangers of crime to the public.

With the establishment of the council, Musa believes that the police's integrity and strength will continue to be defended.

Musa became the country's top cop in September 2006 and retired four years later in 2010.