A FORMER Superintendent who retired from Derbyshire Constabulary five years ago says he would be willing to re-join the police in a bid to crack down on those flouting the law during the coronavirus lockdown.
Kul Mahay spent 32 years working with the police and, at one time, he was one of the most senior Asian police officers in the UK.
Now specialising in social and emotional intelligence, the 53-year-old regularly works with senior leaders in the police and agencies across the public and private sector; he has worked with both Derbyshire and Leicestershire Constabulary in recent months, helping them to get the most from their staff through successful coaching and mentoring.
He said: “Retired police officers have a lot of experience which they can bring back to the force and I believe that most officers would jump at the chance to make a difference once more.
“For me, I always wanted to be a police officer. It was my dream job from the age of 10 and it was an honour to wear the uniform.
“I believe that we could offer some sort of support role in the current climate, to help free up those on the frontline.
“I heard that the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) were working with government to facilitate the return of recently retired officers and have already filled in the necessary paperwork to return.”
Police have been given increased powers during the coronavirus lockdown to enforce protection. They include handing out fines to those who ignore the tough restrictions on movement, after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson banned “all but essential travel”.
People ignoring tougher restrictions could be hit with a £60 fine initially with second-time offenders fined £120 if they fail to heed the warning.
Parents who fail to stop their children from breaking the rules will also be fined and, if fines aren’t paid within the designated period, then magistrates are able to impose unlimited fines.
The measure came into force last month and will last six months, with a review every three weeks.
The NPCC, though, have told regional forces to use these tougher measures as a ‘last resort’ amid backlash over tactics being used in some areas – including Derbyshire, who were widely criticised for filming and shaming walkers in the Peak District with a drone.
They say officers should “engage, explain and encourage” people to follow the new regulations before dishing out fines to maintain positive relationships.
This advice has been welcomed by Metropolitan Police commissioner, Dame Cressida Dick – someone who Kul has a lot of respect for.
He said: “I have always regarded Cressida Dick as someone in the police service who is a passionate leader, both for her staff and the public. I think she has demonstrated that retired officers hold a valuable skill set that can still support existing colleagues and communities.”
ENDS
This press release was issued by Penguin PR. For more information or to arrange interviews please contact Kerry Ganly on 07734 723951 or by emailing [email protected]
