Undercover traffic police issued stricter policies

A new ministry circular, which will take effect starting September 15, will allow teams of traffic police officers in disguise to use their observation skills and specialized tools to monitor traffic situations. If they find violations, they are to inform the non-disguised force.

The circular states that the undercover teams and regular forces must maintain appropriate distances from each other while monitoring drivers.

In certain cases, where severe violations occur, officers in disguise can show their police certificates and enlist other officers to assist them.

However, disguises and undercover work will only be allowed at certain locations where plans have already been approved and put in place.

The Ministry of Public Security said the disguises help maintain traffic safety and order, and assist in crime prevention. The circular said the new policies and guidelines would help make traffic police officers' work "more effective."

While policies that allow traffic police officers to disguise themselves were first approved in 2012, the new circular specifies more exactly the goals and authority of those in disguise, as well as the conditions under which they are allowed to use undercover work.

It also specifies that traffic police can be equipped with weapons including guns during their patrol.