What to expect

If you are stopped, police will ask you a few questions and, if necessary, search you. This search is not voluntary. If you resist, the police can use reasonable force to conduct the search.

The police will want to search:

Any bags you may be carrying
Your pockets
Anything found in your bags or pockets

You should expect them to search anywhere you could conceivably conceal whatever they have told you they are looking for. If you are in a public place, you will usually only have to remove exterior garments such as your coat and gloves.

If police ask you to remove more than your coat, or if you are wearing clothing for religious reasons (such as a veil), they will take you somewhere private, out of public view. If this happens the police officer involved must be the same gender as you.The process should be handled quickly and professionally and shouldn’t take up too much of your time.

What the Police officer must tell you

The law under which they are stopping or searching you
Their name and Station
What they are looking for

You have the right to be given a record of the search.