Police Can Search and Seize Cash Suspected to be Linked to Crime

In an effort to combat criminal activity, police officers in St Helena have been granted new powers to search and seize cash suspected to be linked to illegal conduct.

Revised Laws Give Police New Powers

Under the revised laws, officers can detain individuals for up to 48 hours if they suspect them of carrying cash worth £100 or more that is connected to criminal activities. The powers are exercisable only with prior approval from a justice of the peace or senior officer, unless it is not practicable to obtain such approval in advance.

• Officers must have reasonable grounds for suspecting that the cash is criminal property or intended for use in criminal conduct before exercising these powers.
• Cash seized can be detained for up to 48 hours while investigations are ongoing. The detention period can be extended by a court order, but not beyond three months.

Forfeiture and Release of Seized Cash

If cash is seized, it can be forfeited to the state if it is proven in court that it was obtained through illegal means or intended for use in criminal activity. Additionally, cash can be released if the conditions that justified its detention are no longer met.

Goals of the New Laws

The new powers aim to disrupt and dismantle organized crime groups that rely on illegal activities to fund their operations. The laws will help police officers target and seize assets linked to criminal conduct, ultimately reducing the financial benefits of crime and making St Helena a safer place.

Key Provisions

• Police can search individuals and their belongings if they suspect them of carrying cash worth £100 or more connected to criminal activities.
• Officers must have reasonable grounds for suspicion before exercising these powers.
• Cash seized can be detained for up to 48 hours while investigations are ongoing.
• The detention period can be extended by a court order, but not beyond three months.
• Cash can be forfeited to the state if it is proven in court that it was obtained through illegal means or intended for use in criminal activity.

Reactions

The new laws have been welcomed by law enforcement officials as an important tool in their fight against organized crime. “These powers will enable us to target and disrupt the financial activities of criminal groups, ultimately making our communities safer,” said a spokesperson for the police force.

However, some critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on innocent individuals who may be caught up in the new laws. “We need to ensure that these powers are used proportionately and fairly, without unfairly targeting law-abiding citizens,” said a local resident.