[1] Before the British Residency introduced a formal policing system in 1906, Brunei's national security and communal peace were managed by thirteen government officers, most notably the Pengiran Temenggong.

This official not only ensured land and marine security but also served as the sultan's escort on his journeys, leading the royal entourage with a symbolic token, followed by Sakai attendants.

His duties spanned law enforcement, naval command, governance of newly acquired territories, and overseeing public order, including the maintenance of roads, buildings, and other municipal structures.

Additionally, Brunei's low level of education resulted in a shortage of skilled local workers, emphasising the need for pooled resources.

Although serious crimes were infrequent, the police faced challenges in raising public awareness and reporting, with village leaders often addressing smaller issues.

Nonetheless, by 1919, interest in police employment grew, spurred by the positive image portrayed by Malay officers from the Straits Settlements, leading to an increasing waiting list for recruits.

[6] The early police force in Brunei primarily supported local authorities in enforcing laws and maintaining public order, with responsibilities that included protecting government buildings and official residences.

In response to rising crime complaints, the police presence increased from 12 officers in 1906 to a more widespread deployment throughout Brunei, with personnel assigned to regions such as Muara, Tutong, Belait, and eventually Temburong.

By 1915, an increase in funding, aligned with the rise in the country's revenue, allowed for further development of police infrastructure in both urban and rural areas.

By 1907, despite the Brooke family's mining concessions at the Brooketon Colliery, the British Resident expanded the police presence, establishing additional stations and barracks in strategic locations such as Kuala Balai and Tutong.

The barracks at BRO were relocated to Brunei Town in 1920, and the number of police posts grew from four stations in 1907 to include Temburong by 1915, eventually extending to the Labu and Rangau regions.

[8] Between 1906 and 1920, the police force faced several challenges, including issues of discipline, a lack of resources, and delays in crime reporting.

Crimes such as theft, murder, assault, smuggling, and property offenses were on the rise, prompting calls for a dedicated police force in Brunei.

This decision was driven by Brunei's growing population, which rose from 21,718 in 1911 to 25,454 in 1921, alongside a significant increase in resource export earnings, which climbed from $51,777 in 1907 to $201,250 in 1920.

Despite this separation, the Brunei Police Force continued to rely on personnel from the Straits Settlements due to a lack of qualified local applicants for senior roles.

This dependence on external expertise was crucial for developing a capable police force, as local staff needed training and guidance to advance their careers.

Rapid economic growth and demographic shifts from Brunei's oil discoveries complicated policing amid an expanding population and rising crime rates.

Recognising the importance of education, the force established a constable class to enhance officers' skills and offered allowances to those who could read and write.

[11] Between 1921 and 1941, the Brunei Police Force gradually earned the trust of the local population through efforts to maintain a positive image and enhance officer effectiveness.

Although the number of recorded incidents increased, the types of criminal cases remained consistent with those from 1906 to 1920, and the police successfully managed rising crime rates.

The government's cooperation with the police, including the issuance of identification certificates in 1934 and the approval of new laws, helped regulate criminal activity and build public confidence.

With support from Sergeant Major Muhammad Daud, Inspector F. Mann became the first European CPO after the separation from the Straits Settlements Police Force.

[14] Despite local resentment and operational challenges, the Brunei Police Force continued under Japanese rule, retaining limited duties like shooting classes and basic training.

[19] Following the Anglo–Brunei Agreement in 1971, Brunei gained full control over its internal affairs, and Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah was appointed inspector general of police on 14 August 1971.

The force reorganised and grew in 1995, adding five departments—including Operations, Intelligence, and Criminal Investigation—to handle the complexity of crime, including cybercrime and terrorism.

[23] The Logistics, Administration, and Operations Departments of the RBPF underwent major renovations between 2000 and 2004 in order to improve efficiency and adjust to changing security requirements.

Before restructuring into four divisions by 2004, the Logistics Department had grown to manage duties across six sections, including communications, building maintenance, and airport security tools.

By creating many directorates and expanding police command districts, Commissioner Abdul Rahman Besar administratively reorganised the force.

Advanced technologies, including as the Police On-Line System, LATIS, and the ASEANAPOL Database, were implemented under Commissioner Ya'akub Zainal to facilitate quick information sharing and interagency cooperation.

With the help of facilities supplied by the government, the police commissioners played a crucial role in advancing the force's service standards and bringing it into line with Brunei's changing social, political, and economic environment during these transitions.