Police Commissioner Ali Shujau has told the police that the powers given to them by law must not be used in an arbitrary manner.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the officers who completed the 38th Basic Training Course, Shujau said he had some requests from the graduates.

“The first thing is not to use mobile phones while on duty except for duty purposes,” Shujau said at the ceremony held at the police campus in Dhaalu Vaanee island.

He said there were complaints from the public about police officers being on their phones while on duty and not paying attention to the street.

“This needs to be fixed,” he said.

Photo: Police

He also advised the police to always treat the citizens politely and speak to them formally.

“I hope you officers will work to solve this undesirable characteristic labelled on the police,” he said.

Shujau also highlighted the responsible use of powers given to the police.

Reminding the police that the powers given to them by law should not be used arbitrarily, he said they should "always try to resolve issues without the use of force."

"To be the ones who show the way. To be the ones who give opportunities for reform. I hope that your work will make the Maldives Police Service an institution that will be loved and respected by the people," he said.