Police Service Commission
PSC (Police)
Summary
The Police Service Commission is established under the Police Act [Cap 105] (1980), as amended by the Police (Amendment) Act 2010. It is the primary disciplinary authority over the Vanuatu Police Force and Vanuatu Mobile Force. The Commission has binding authority to dismiss officers found to have committed intentional assault while on duty, acting on recommendations from the internal Professional Standards Unit. It also has authority over appointments of senior officers. As amended, all six commission members are appointed by the Minister of Internal Affairs; at least three must be retired police officers. This mixed-cap composition requirement distinguishes it from a fully civilian body. The Commission does not conduct independent use-of-force investigations — that role falls to the internal PSU, whose findings are referred up to the Commission.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Removal standard | At will (weak protection) |
| Budget independence | Executive discretion |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | No |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Police Act [Cap 105]
- Citation
- Police Act [Cap 105], as amended by Police (Amendment) Act 2010 (No. 22 of 2010)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Exercises binding discipline and dismissal authority over members of the Vanuatu Police Force including the Vanuatu Mobile Force; appoints senior officers; dismisses officers found to have committed intentional assault on duty on recommendation of the Professional Standards Unit.