The Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution (BIP) is to start investigating crimes that are currently under the jurisdiction of police stations. The BIP said it will officially start to investigate theft, robbery, embezzlement and stealing. The move will allow police to dedicate their full time to chasing and arresting criminals. A BIP source said: “No new department will be set up, instead these crimes will be assigned to current departments such as the Department of Crimes, Department of Drugs and Narcotics, and the Department of Financial Cases.” King Abdul Aziz University Professor Dr. Omar Al-Khouli, who is a legal consultant for the National Society for Human Rights, said the step will ensure justice for all. “It's not logical that police stations investigate these crimes; this is against the basic principles of justice. The BIP should have been entrusted with this task every since it was established in 2001. Perhaps such a decision was delayed because of the small number of investigators,” he said. Dr. Al-Khouli hopes to see the day when the BIP becomes responsible for investigating all crimes. The step is being seen as positive throughout the judiciary system. Legal Consultant Saad Bin Mesfir Al-Malki told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that “having one body that investigates all types of crimes will enhance justice”. __
