Overview of Jordanian Police

The Jordanian police, officially known as the Public Security Directorate (PSD), plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order within the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Established in 1921, the PSD is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Interior and is responsible for ensuring public safety, enforcing laws, and combating crime across the country.

The PSD is structured into various departments and units, each with its own specialized functions and responsibilities. At the head of the PSD is the Director General, who oversees the overall operations and administration of the police force. Reporting directly to the Director General are several deputy directors, each supervising specific areas such as operations, administration, and support services.

One of the key departments within the PSD is the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which is tasked with investigating serious crimes, including homicides, robberies, and other major offenses. The CID employs skilled detectives who use advanced forensic techniques and investigative methods to solve complex cases and bring perpetrators to justice.

Another important unit is the Traffic Department, responsible for regulating traffic flow, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting road safety. This department manages vehicle registration, issues driver’s licenses, and conducts road patrols to prevent accidents and maintain order on the roads.

The Public Security Directorate also includes specialized units dedicated to counterterrorism and national security. These units work closely with other law enforcement agencies and intelligence services to identify and neutralize threats to the country’s security, both domestically and internationally.

Community policing is a central aspect of the PSD’s strategy, aiming to build trust and cooperation between the police and the communities they serve. Officers engage with the public through outreach programs, neighborhood watch initiatives, and community events, fostering positive relationships and addressing local concerns.

In addition to its traditional law enforcement duties, the PSD also provides various support services to the public, including emergency response, firefighting, and search and rescue operations. The Civil Defense Directorate, a branch of the PSD, is responsible for handling emergencies such as natural disasters, fires, and hazardous incidents.

Training and professional development are priorities for the Jordanian police, with the PSD operating its own training academy to ensure that officers receive the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Training programs cover a wide range of topics, including law enforcement tactics, criminal investigation techniques, and human rights principles.

The Public Security Directorate is subject to civilian oversight and accountability mechanisms to uphold transparency and integrity within the organization. Independent oversight bodies, such as the Inspectorate General and the Police Ombudsman, investigate complaints of misconduct and ensure that officers adhere to professional standards and ethical conduct.

Internationally, the Jordanian police collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and participate in regional and international initiatives to combat transnational crime, terrorism, and illicit trafficking. Through partnerships with organizations such as INTERPOL and Europol, the PSD contributes to global efforts to maintain security and stability.

In summary, the Public Security Directorate of Jordan is a multifaceted law enforcement agency with a wide range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring public safety, maintaining order, and upholding the rule of law. With a focus on professionalism, community engagement, and international cooperation, the PSD plays a vital role in safeguarding the security and well-being of the Jordanian people.

The Public Security Directorate (PSD) of Jordan operates within a comprehensive legal framework that outlines its roles, responsibilities, and powers. The Law on Public Security, enacted in 1965 and subsequently amended, serves as the primary legislation governing the activities of the PSD. This law defines the jurisdiction of the PSD, its organizational structure, and the scope of its authority in maintaining public order and safety.

Under the Law on Public Security, the PSD is empowered to enforce laws, regulations, and decrees issued by the government. This includes maintaining public order, preventing crime, and responding to emergencies and disturbances. The PSD is also responsible for protecting public and private property, ensuring the security of vital installations, and providing assistance during natural disasters and other emergencies.

The organizational structure of the PSD consists of several directorates, departments, and specialized units, each with its own set of functions and responsibilities. These include:

1. General Directorate: At the apex of the PSD hierarchy is the Director General, who is appointed by royal decree and serves as the chief executive officer of the police force. The Director General is responsible for setting the overall strategic direction of the PSD and overseeing its day-to-day operations.

2. Deputy Directorates: The PSD is divided into multiple deputy directorates, each headed by a deputy director who reports directly to the Director General. These deputy directorates oversee various aspects of police work, including operations, administration, logistics, and support services.

3. Criminal Investigation Department (CID): The CID is tasked with investigating serious crimes, including homicides, robberies, and organized crime. It employs skilled detectives who use a variety of investigative techniques, including forensic analysis and surveillance, to solve cases and apprehend suspects.

4. Traffic Department: Responsible for regulating traffic flow, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting road safety. The Traffic Department manages vehicle registration, issues driver’s licenses, and conducts patrols to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.

5. Counterterrorism Units: Specialized units within the PSD are dedicated to combating terrorism and safeguarding national security. These units work closely with intelligence agencies and other law enforcement bodies to identify and disrupt terrorist activities.

6. Community Policing Units: The PSD places a strong emphasis on community policing, with officers assigned to engage with the public and build trust and cooperation within local communities. These units work closely with residents to address concerns, prevent crime, and enhance public safety.

In addition to its primary law enforcement functions, the PSD provides a range of support services to the public, including emergency response, firefighting, and search and rescue operations. The Civil Defense Directorate, a branch of the PSD, is responsible for coordinating these activities and responding to emergencies such as fires, natural disasters, and hazardous incidents.

Training and professional development are integral components of the PSD’s operations, with the police force operating its own training academy to ensure that officers receive the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Training programs cover a wide range of subjects, including law enforcement tactics, criminal investigation techniques, and human rights principles.

The PSD operates under the principles of accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights. Independent oversight bodies, such as the Inspectorate General and the Police Ombudsman, are tasked with investigating complaints of misconduct and ensuring that officers adhere to professional standards and ethical conduct.

Internationally, the PSD collaborates with other law enforcement agencies and participates in regional and international initiatives to combat transnational crime, terrorism, and illicit trafficking. Through partnerships with organizations such as INTERPOL and Europol, the PSD contributes to global efforts to maintain security and stability.

In summary, the Public Security Directorate of Jordan is a multifaceted law enforcement agency with a wide range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring public safety, maintaining order, and upholding the rule of law. With a focus on professionalism, community engagement, and international cooperation, the PSD plays a vital role in safeguarding the security and well-being of the Jordanian people.