Arrest by a Private Person

Under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), private persons are allowed to make arrests under certain circumstances. However, the power to arrest by a private person is limited and must be exercised within the bounds of the law.

Circumstances where a Private Person may make an Arrest

1. When the person is caught committing a non-bailable offence.
2. When a proclamation has been made by a competent authority declaring the person as an offender.
3. When the person is accused of committing an offence that has caused or is likely to cause injury to a person, property, or public safety.
4. When the person is accused of committing an offence that is punishable with imprisonment for seven years or more.

Before making an Arrest, a Private Person must take the following Precautions

1. They must have reasonable grounds to believe that the person to be arrested has committed an offence.
2. They must inform the person being arrested of the grounds of the arrest.
3. They must deliver the person to a police officer or a nearby police station as soon as possible.
4. They must not use more force than is necessary to make the arrest.