Arrests are a key part of our criminal justice system. They ensure that individuals accused of crimes are brought into the judicial process. The Criminal Procedure Code (CPC) lays out the rules and regulations around arrests, detailing the responsibilities of law enforcement and the rights of citizens. This guide aims to provide a clear understanding of arrest under the CPC, explaining its purpose and the different types of arrests.

Meaning and Purpose of Arrest

Arrest means detaining someone suspected of committing a crime. The main goal of an arrest is to make sure the accused attends court to face the charges against them.

Arrests serve important roles in the criminal justice system:

1. Preventing Flight: Detaining a suspect helps stop them from fleeing justice. For instance, studies have shown that 30% of felony suspects can evade arrest after initial contact with law enforcement.

   
   

2. Ensuring Public Safety: By removing dangerous individuals from the community, arrests can help keep the public safe. In fact, crime rates have dropped by 2% on average in areas where swift arrests are made for violent crimes.

   
   

3. Facilitating Investigation: Keeping a suspect in custody allows police to conduct thorough investigations. For example, a majority of homicides are solved within 48 hours of an arrest, as detectives can gather crucial evidence quickly.