How long can you be detained for after your arrest?
- You can be detained in custody for up to a maximum of 48 hours from the time of your arrest.
- Once 48 hours has passed from the time of your arrest, you should be released from the Police’s custody on the condition that you promise to a present yourself whenever your attendance is next required (e.g. attending at a Police station to assist with investigations or to attend Court to answer for formal criminal charges).
- However, if the Police need to detain you beyond the first 48 hours, they can do so after obtaining the Court’s permission and explaining why your detention should be extended.
