A person reasonably suspected of being a deserter from which institution may be arrested without warrant?

Section 54(3) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) 1898 empowers a police officer to arrest without a warrant any person reasonably suspected of being a deserter from the Armed Forces of Pakistan. Desertion from the Armed Forces is considered a serious offence as it affects national security, military discipline, and operational readiness.

The law allows this provision to ensure swift and effective enforcement of military law and maintain the integrity of national defense. If a person is reasonably suspected of abandoning their duties in the army, navy, or air force, police officers have the authority to detain them immediately without waiting for formal orders or a warrant.

This arrest procedure is intended to prevent deserters from evading the law and to protect both military discipline and public safety. After arrest, the individual must be handed over to the appropriate military authority for further action in accordance with military regulations and CrPC procedures.

The provision emphasizes the importance of reasonable suspicion. Officers cannot arrest arbitrarily; there must be credible evidence or circumstances indicating desertion. This ensures a balance between enforcement powers and protection of individual rights.

Key Facts:

• Relevant Law: Section 54(3) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) 1898


• Who Can Be Arrested: Persons reasonably suspected of deserting the Armed Forces of Pakistan


• Purpose: Maintain military discipline and enforce national security


• Legal Authority: Police officer can arrest without warrant


• Requirement: Arrest based on reasonable suspicion


• Post-Arrest Procedure: Detained individual handed over to proper military authority


• Significance: Protects defense interests and ensures prompt legal action against deserters