Govt. to increase surveillance

4th September 2009

Police powers to snoop through mail and tap phones could see a significant increase under draft legislation being prepared by the Interior Ministry (MSW).

The MSW plans to expand the list of those who could be subject to police electronic surveillance in an attempt to crack down on crime.

While most people would welcome regulations allowing police to monitor the phone calls and check emails of suspected sex offenders and paedophiles, the legislation would also encompass those under suspicion of committing lesser offences.

Alleged environmental polluters, people possible involved in financial crime and even football hooligans could soon find themselves the targets of police snooping if ...