49.This section sets out the general duties and powers of members of the police.  It replaces, with modifications, section 18 of the 1998 Act.  Subsection (1) states that the general duties of police officers are to protect life and property, to preserve order, to prevent crime and to bring offenders to justice.  Subsection (4) requires officers to be guided by the code of ethics issued by the Policing Board under section 52 in carrying out their duties.  Subsection (5) requires police officers to carry out their functions in co-operation with, and with the aim of securing the support of, the local community.
Commentary Part Vi: the Police Section 32: General Functions of the Police