CP Manoj Verma orders formation of 'Investigation Support Unit' to tackle rising crimes

Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma has ordered the formation of a dedicated ‘Investigation Support Unit’ (ISU) in every police branch across the city. The directive was issued on the occasion of Rabindra Jayanti, aiming to enhance the capacity of local police stations to tackle increasing crimes in the city. The new units will operate 24/7 and will be tasked with assisting in fire accidents, natural disasters, serious crimes, and other emergencies, such as incidents that occurred at RG Kar Hospital, among others.

The ISU will also be responsible for investigating incidents related to gunfire during religious processions and attacks on police during political rallies, which have raised concerns in recent times. The unit will consist of five members in each branch: an inspector, two sub-inspectors or sergeants, and two constables. This team will be deployed to major incidents across Kolkata, where they will handle essential tasks, including filing FIRs, collecting evidence, conducting videography, and providing real-time support to local police stations.

Kolkata Police is organized into 10 divisions, with each division’s Deputy Commissioner overseeing the operation of an ISU. This structure ensures that the team is integrated into the daily operations of the city’s law enforcement system. The unit’s formation comes as a proactive measure against the rise in criminal activities in the city, particularly in light of the increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, which have the potential to escalate security concerns.

The 'Investigation Support Unit' is also designed to address systemic issues within the enforcement of the Indian Citizen Security Code, which has been under scrutiny. Lalbazar, the Kolkata Police Headquarters, has faced questions from the Calcutta High Court regarding procedural lapses in recent investigations. The formation of the ISU aims to streamline the investigative process, ensuring that cases are resolved promptly and efficiently, and that reports are submitted without unnecessary delays.

While Kolkata Police has previously conducted successful investigations in high-profile cases like the Bhowanipur explosion and the American Center attack, the introduction of the ISU is seen as a strategic enhancement to existing efforts. By adding the ISU, the police aim to fortify their investigative framework and improve the speed and effectiveness of crime resolution. The Police Commissioner has emphasized the need to adapt to changing crime patterns, ensuring that the force remains responsive and capable of handling modern law enforcement challenges.