The New Straits Times carried a report about the police Criminal Investigation Department director speaking up about police misconduct and corruption (“CID director on corrupt cops: ‘How can a police sergeant afford an Alphard?'” — NST, Oct 7).

The deputy inspector-general of police has also spoken about dirty cops.

Many have praised them on social media but a small number has also criticised them.

Those criticising them either have tainted mindsets or are guilty of misconduct in their organisations.

The extent of police misconduct and corruption may not be fully known or understood.

Even if there are only a few rotten apples, it cannot be ignored any longer by Madani policymakers.

Police leaders are responsible for ensuring that their officers operate within the legal framework and policies and adhere to high ethical and integrity standards.

By addressing misconduct and corruption openly, the police’s leadership reinforces the rule of law by strengthening trust and confidence between police and society.

Police leaders must establish a culture of accountability and transparency.

They need to set clear expectations for ethical conduct. They must ensure that officers are held responsible for any misconduct or corrupt behaviour.

When citizens have trust and confidence in the police force, they are more likely to report crimes, cooperate as witnesses and work collaboratively to improve safety in society.

Police leaders must establish a robust recruitment process, invest in training and development, promote merit-based advancement and cultivate an ethical culture.

Police are entrusted with protecting and promoting human rights.

Police leaders are responsible for ensuring that officers respect and protect the rights of individuals.

In summary, police leadership plays a central role in addressing misconduct and corruption.

Action and criminal charges must be levelled against those who break the law, and flout internal standing orders and policies.

Corrupt police officers deserve no mercy.

This article first appeared on New Straits Times.