Najaf police begin using body cameras in push for ‘rights of citizens and officers alike’

NAJAF — Police in Najaf have begun equipping patrol officers with body cameras to record their activities during shifts, patrols, and field assignments, part of a broader effort to enhance accountability and protect the rights of both citizens and officers, authorities said.

The initiative, first rolled out by Iraq’s Ministry of Interior in Baghdad, has now been extended to Najaf, with plans to implement it across other governorates in the future.

“The body camera project was launched by the Ministry of Interior,” said Mufid Al-Tahir, media director for Najaf police. “These are cameras carried by patrol officers that operate around the clock, recording everything during duty hours.”

Al-Tahir said footage from the cameras may be used as evidence to help resolve complaints or disputes involving police conduct. “The aim of this technology is to ensure the rights of citizens and officers alike,” he added.

Civil activist Hijaz Bahiyah welcomed the move, calling it “an important step to guarantee the rights of both citizens and police officers.” He added, “It should have been implemented a long time ago.”

Bahiyah also urged authorities to expand public surveillance across the city. “This would contribute to more comprehensive and accurate monitoring of events,” he said.