The Nature of Police Duties and Functions in Traffic Accident Law Enforcement: A Study of The South Sulawesi Regional Police Jurisdiction

This study aims to identify, analyze, and examine the nature of the duties and functions of the police in enforcing criminal law related to traffic accidents within the jurisdiction of the South Sulawesi Regional Police. The research employs an empirical legal approach focusing on traffic accident crimes in several regions, namely Makassar, Luwu, East Luwu, Jeneponto, and North Toraja. Primary data were obtained through interviews, questionnaires, and field observations, while secondary data were collected from legal documents, regulations, and relevant academic literature. Using purposive sampling, data were gathered from 100 respondents and analyzed through a combination of qualitative analysis and quantitative techniques, including frequency and percentage tabulation. The findings indicate that the essential nature of the police’s duties and functions in enforcing traffic accident criminal law is centered on maintaining public security and order, enforcing the law, and providing protection and services to the community, with the ultimate objectives of achieving justice, legal certainty, and societal benefit. To enhance traffic accident management within the South Sulawesi Regional Police jurisdiction, this study recommends improving police professionalism, increasing personnel capacity, upgrading facilities and technological support, and strengthening coordination among relevant institutions. Considering that traffic accidents are generally preceded by traffic violations, it is also necessary to revise the substantive legal framework, intensify public legal education, and cultivate a culture of legal discipline to ensure optimal safety, order, legal protection, and justice.