In English surveillance, can it be applied to non-suspects?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with a warrant
• D. Only in national security cases

Answer: (A)

In English surveillance practice, authorities can surveil people who are not suspects as part of a targeted, lawful operation. This is allowed when the purpose is to gather information relevant to an investigation and the activity is necessary and proportionate under the governing laws (such as RIPA and the Investigatory Powers Act). Directed surveillance, for example, can focus on individuals who aren’t themselves under suspicion if doing so is necessary to uncover information about the matter being investigated. Intrusive or private-place surveillance, on the other hand, requires stronger authorization or a warrant. So the statement is true: surveillance can be applied to non-suspects when properly authorised and justified.