THE next time a resident complains to the police about how his neighbour is making a ruckus or dirtying the corridor, the police may well refer the parties for mediation.

Proposed changes to the Criminal Procedure Code, which will be tabled for discussion in February 2009's budget debate, will empower the police to refer such cases to the Community Mediation Centres (CMC) before the parties turn up before a magistrate with their complaints, which is now the main recourse.

Their refusal to go for mediation may result in the magistrate dismissing their complaints.

Under the tabled Criminal Procedure Code Bill, the police will also be given greater latitude to shoot to kill suspects whom they believe to be terrorists.

The Bill, which deals with changes with court procedures and the powers of law enforcement agencies, will also equip police to be able to seize cash in a suspect's bank account or safe deposit box without need for a bank order.

Currently, neighbours with quarrels may go before a magistrate, who will usually recommend mediation.

Making mediation the first option would reduce magistrate's case loads and allow matters to be settled amicably, said, lawyer Christopher Bridges .

Figures from the Subordinate Courts show that the number of magistrate's complaints involving neighbourly quarrels increased from 2,367 in 2004 to 3,716 last year - a 56 per cent increase.

A magistrate's complaint can be filed by a person who wishes to seek redress for an offence that he believes has been committed against him.

Read the full story in Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.