The United Nations’ International Day of Police Cooperation, observed on September 7, recognises the indispensable role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety and nurturing strong community relationships. In Nottingham, the Dawoodi Bohra community has much to celebrate in this regard, especially through the experiences and contributions of Mustafa Rajabali, a long-serving police dispatcher with Nottinghamshire Police.
Mustafa Rajabali’s entry into the world of policing was far from conventional. Reflecting on his early days, Mustafa recalls, “I fell into this job by accident. While waiting for a friend one day, I picked up a discarded newspaper to pass the time and saw an advertisement for control room staff with Nottinghamshire Police. I hadn’t really thought about working for the police, but something about it intrigued me. So, on a whim, I decided to apply—and as they say, the rest is history!”
Over 32 years later, Mustafa remains a dedicated member of the police force, albeit in a role that many might not immediately associate with law enforcement. “I actually work as a member of police staff, not a police officer,” he explains. “My main role is that of a police dispatcher. After going through the recruitment process and training, I soon found myself working as a dispatcher. It turns out, I really enjoy the role. My main responsibility is coordinating police responses, ensuring officers have the information they need and that help gets to the right place quickly.”
Working as a police dispatcher comes with its fair share of challenges, especially in a city as dynamic as Nottingham. Mustafa describes the pressures of his role: “As a police dispatcher, I face several high-stress situations. One moment I might be dealing with a suicidal missing person or a shoplifter, and the next I could be handling a burglary in progress. On another day we could be preparing for a royal visit, or coordinating responses during high-risk football matches. Multitasking is constant—managing radio communications, tracking officers, handling calls simultaneously, and more.”
Despite the intensity of his work, Mustafa finds deep satisfaction in what he does. “The emotional toll can be tough, and shift work can be exhausting,” he admits, “but it’s always rewarding when a baddie is arrested or a missing child is brought home safely.”
The relationship between Nottinghamshire Police and the Dawoodi Bohra community is one that has grown stronger over the years, thanks in part to individuals like Mustafa. He notes, “As our relationship has developed over the years, police officers and civilian staff of all ranks have been keen to visit us. One key initiative has been the regular visits of newly recruited police officers to the Dawoodi Bohras’ community centre for training sessions. These visits give them a chance to learn about our community, as well as others, which helps build mutual respect. Ultimately, I find that we often have more in common than differences.”
In times of difficulty, this relationship has proven invaluable. Mustafa shares, “Due to the recent disorder directed at the Muslim community, I received numerous calls from officers offering reassurance and support. Even retired officers contacted me, providing encouragement and solidarity. Additionally, we had regular patrols around our community centre to ensure safety and maintain a visible presence, which helped to reinforce our sense of security.”
Balancing his demanding job with his religious duties as a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community requires careful planning and the support of his colleagues. “Since I work 24/7, I need to book leave well in advance,” Mustafa says. “However, my colleagues are always brilliant during occasions like Ramadan, often swapping shifts with me so I can attend the community centre and break my fast on time. Additionally, my boss is very supportive of my leave for Ashara Mubaraka [the highly significant 10-day occasion in the Dawoodi Bohras’ calendar] and does his utmost to accommodate it during that period.”
When it comes to encouraging young Dawoodi Bohras to consider a career in policing, Mustafa is quick to emphasise the wide range of opportunities within the force. “I would advise anyone interested in a career in policing not to think only of becoming a police officer,” he says. “There are many other career paths within the police force, such as roles in CSI, control room operations, HR, accountancy, and civilian investigators.”
As the world observes the International Day of Police Cooperation, Mustafa Rajabali’s story stands as a shining example of the positive impact that strong police-community relations can have. His experience with Nottinghamshire Police underscores the importance of understanding, respect, and collaboration in fostering a safer and more cohesive society.
Through his dedication and the support of his colleagues, Mustafa continues to build bridges between the Dawoodi Bohra community and the local police, ensuring that both sides work together towards a common goal of safety and harmony. As Mustafa himself puts it, “Policing is not just about maintaining order, but about fostering trust, building relationships, and working together to create a better, safer world for everyone.”
This International Day of Police Cooperation, the Dawoodi Bohras honour the efforts of law enforcement officers and staff like Mustafa, who tirelessly contribute to the safety and well-being of our communities.