NCJ Number
78938
Date Published
1980
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The role of West German ministries in large-scale manhunts is explored.
Abstract
In general, the Minister of the Interior bears responsibility for police actions in manhunts, but he can only establish policy and make political decisions. The tactical operations leadership must remain in the hands of the police. At the same time, the police must understand that certain tactical decisions may become politically significant and that for that reason politically responsible powers should be consulted. A relationship of mutual trust between police agencies and the Ministry of the Interior is essential to successful manhunt efforts. Such a relationship is illustrated by the cooperation between the Federal Bureau of Criminal Matters and the Ministry of the Interior. The Ministry of the Interior has established a Central Office for Command and Situation Control which serves around the clock as the central information office for internal security. In major search operations, the Ministry must contribute to decisions on such matters as new blackouts and prisoner releases, coordinate communication between police agencies and the press, and in national terrorist emergencies, guide police activities with requests and information. The Ministry may also put its security forces at the disposal of the Federal Bureau of Criminal Matters and transmit requests for assistance to State interior ministries. Mass search operations may also receive support from the Justice Ministry, the Post Office, and telephone services. Success of search operations may depend on cooperation with foreign governments secured by efforts of the Federal Bureau of Criminal Matters through INTERPOL and of the Interior Ministry through their connections. Even at the State level both the national Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Bureau of Criminal Matters may play a vital role in providing information. Extensive illustrations are supplied.