What are police operational ‘Rules of Engagement’ at sea?

It is understandable, why the Commissioner made this request to the community. But naively, I also believe, it’s much like any parent asking a small child not ask or cry out for sweets when they are taken down the sweet or confectionary aisle at one of the large local supermarkets.

So, I’m sorry Commissioner, speculation is rife everywhere and about everything. Just listen to the news, pick up a newspaper or go online and read it. Without doubt, we live in a global culture of speculation and conjecture. And that’s a fact and not speculation.

In my opinion, the public are entitled to additional information, certainly more, than what initially has been released regarding this tragic incident, without interfering with the investigation. And without having to wait weeks or months, before enquiries are complete and then, never hearing how things were concluded. And instead, having to read about it, from the Spanish press, which many people regularly complain about, regarding other important political issues of national importance!

This, is already happening with Sunday’s fatal incident, out at sea somewhere unknown it seems?

The Spanish press, have already published more related information, whether it is ‘true or false or just speculation’ the fact is, it’s already out there and in the larger public domain. While on this side of the border the incident, is deep-in ‘news and information lockdown’ instead of rebutting or of clarifying important points and positions?

Yet, it is not speculation to say, that these serious and fatal incidents out at sea have not only become frequent, but they are also high-profile news items of great public interest. This is obviously why, it is the media’s role in life to report and inform the public, importantly in Panorama’s case, our readership. This is what we intend to do, not necessarily through speculation, but to take our own reporting line. Which is what Panorama is known for, whatever the news item under this newspaper focus!

Rules of Engagement – is Fundamental When Policing Out at Sea - This Has Not Changed

Of course, this was another tragic incident at sea. Of course, officers are brave to risk life and limb out there in the dark, wet and cold, sometimes, having to make split second decisions. Of course, we want the Police to uphold and enforce Gibraltar laws. Of course, Gibraltar must play its part in its fight against organised crime. And of course, officers must also be protected when performing this extremely dangerous policing activity, which can only safely take place or can be performed when operating under strict ‘Rules of Engagement’ it cannot be any other way. BUT IS THIS THE CASE?

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11-03-2020 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR