National security minister says media report misquoted his comments on body cameras for police

The ministry of national security and peace has sought to explain comments made by portfolio minister Dr. Horace Chang about the use of body worn cameras by the police.

Speaking at the constabulary force’s research methodology awards ceremony yesterday, Dr. Chang highlighted a recent media report which he said misquoted him.

Dr. Chang stated the article claimed that he said the current JCF uniform is not designed for body worn cameras.

He noted that this is inaccurate.

The minister said he referenced the historical pinstriped uniforms worn by police officers in earlier periods, reiterating that those uniforms were not designed to accommodate modern policing tools such as body-worn cameras.

Dr. Chang stated that his remarks were made to highlight the evolution and modernisation of the JCF.

The minister underscored that the current navy blue JCF uniform represents a deliberate and strategic upgrade, designed to meet the operational demands of modern law enforcement.

These include reinforced utility belts, attachment points and adaptable fabric structures that support the secure use of body worn cameras, communication devices and other tactical tools.

He said this transition forms part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen crime fighting capabilities through improved technology, enhanced officer safety and greater accountability.

Dr. Chang believes the high command of the police has the capacity to decide how to deploy body worn cameras.