Section 21 of Madras District Police Act, 1865

Duties of Police Officers.—Every Police Officer shall, for all purposes in this Act contained, be considered to be always on duty and shall have the powers of a Police Officer in every part of the General Police District. It shall be his duty to use his best endeavours and ability to prevent all crimes, offences, and public nuisances; to preserve the peace; to apprehend disorderly and suspicious character; to detect and bring offenders to justice; to collect and communicate intelligence affecting the public peace; and promptly to obey and execute all orders and warrants lawfully issued to him.