BDF soldiers warned on legal risks as arrest powers training expands

Barbados Defence Force (BDF) soldiers and sailors are being trained to exercise new arrest powers under strict legal safeguards, as a senior member of the police high command warned that misuse could undermine public trust and carry serious constitutional consequences.

The second cohort of 26 soldiers in the joint arrest powers training programme with The Barbados Police Service began on Monday with Deputy Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce telling the trainees that the power of arrest is one of the most significant authorities granted to law enforcement officers.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce. (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt/Barbados TODAY)

The programme forms part of the operational rollout of legislation passed last year that allows BDF personnel to exercise the powers, privileges and responsibilities of police officers during joint land-based operations with police and when deployed under presidential directive.

The authority is provided under section 79A of the amended Police Act and section 9(2) of the Defence Act. 

The training programme includes instruction in constitutional law, radio protocols, conflict de-escalation strategies, electronic interviewing techniques and other operational areas.

Some 30 BDF personnel have already completed the training and have begun carrying out duties in the field, police officials said.

DCP Boyce told the new cohort: “Under the Constitution of Barbados, every person is entitled to protection of the right to personal liberty and may only be deprived of that liberty in circumstances and in a manner prescribed by law. 

“The authority to arrest therefore must always be exercised within the boundaries of our constitution and our statutes and with the highest regard for human dignity.”

She warned that while lawful arrests can strengthen public confidence in security services, improper use of the power can undermine trust and legitimacy.

The training is designed to transform legal principles into practical guidance for officers operating in high-pressure situations, she said.

“What this training will do is translate that legal framework into practical guidance, so that in real time under operational pressure, you know clearly what you can do, what you must do, and what you must never do.”

DCP Boyce told participants that they must understand when an arrest is lawful, how it should be carried out and what safeguards must follow.

“That includes having reasonable grounds, using only reasonable force, and clearly communicating the reason for arrest,” she said, adding that these were “not optional steps” but legal obligations central to professional policing.

The deputy commissioner also highlighted the importance of discretion, noting that not every situation requires an arrest.

“Professional competence lies in the ability to distinguish between situations that demand immediate enforcement action and those that can be resolved through alternative measures,” she said, pointing to options such as warnings, firm direction or referrals to other agencies.

DCP Boyce further noted that citizens are increasingly aware of their rights and expect law enforcement agencies to exercise authority fairly and lawfully.

“When the public can see that powers of arrest are exercised lawfully, proportionately, and with respect for rights, confidence in our institutions is strengthened.”

(SB)