Retired cops prized by private sector

NSTP

KUALA LUMPUR: Police officers, including those who are retired, are in demand in the private sector due to their invaluable experience in the field of security.

Insurance companies, theme parks, shopping complexes and supermarkets are luring many of them with lucrative salaries.

They are not only prized for their skills but also for their network of contacts in the police force.

Insurance companies, for instance, need experienced policemen as they could offer advice on the type of security which corporate clients require.

They are also needed to investigate claims that may be fraudulent.
Theme parks, shopping complexes and security firms are also keen to utilise the knowledge and experience of senior police officers to beef up security.

Supermarkets, for instance, employ policemen as in-house detectives. The cost of hiring them is often offset by the decreased amount of losses due to theft.

These private firms often offer up to double or triple the policemen's salaries.

Concerned over the brain drain, the police force is taking measures to reverse the brain drain.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Ismail Omar said studies were being conducted to look for ways to retain experienced officers.

"We are also making a shortlist of retired senior police officers who have a lot of experience and knowledge to offer and drawing up contracts to re-employ them."

The Malaysia Ex-Police Association welcomed the move as many of their members had more than 30 years experience in the force.

Last year, about 215 senior police officers and 1,508 rank and file policemen retired from the force.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had said recently that the government wanted to retain the best officers in the police force.

Procedures are also in place to ensure speedier promotions.