Mode of identifying suspects not safe

Police standing order 6 (iv) (i) provides that an identifying witness in an identification parade must identify the suspect by touching.

This is to remove any doubt as to the identity of the suspect, but is it safe, to both the witness and the suspect? For instance, in a situation where the suspect allegedly hurt the witness or someone close to the witness, it would not be such a good idea for the witness to be allowed to lay his or her hands on the suspect.

Or in a case where the suspect is not done with the complainant and the police goes on to bring the complainant as an identification witness, it would be unwise to let such witnesses get close to the suspect. In some states in the US, they use photos. Essentially, they put together about six photos from which the witness is supposed to choose the suspect.

Suspects should be made to carry numbers that are conspicuous. This will help minimise contact between the suspect and witnesses as well as ensure safety of both. Alternatively, we can go the US way and use photographs.