Currently, LEPRA authorises strip-searches upon ‘reasonable grounds’ of necessity, urgency and existing circumstances. With the criteria of ‘reasonable grounds’ undefined and vague, strip-searches are conducted inconsistently and are therefore an arbitrary use of power. Additionally, police are permitted to use ‘reasonable force’ in conducting strip-searches. With this also vague, strip-searches are subject to further vulnerability, as evident through the common practice of individuals required to partake in demeaning conduct such as ‘squat and cough’ or bending over.
