17.4 Application For Issue Of Warrant - Offences Against The State Act, 1939, Section 30(4) (As Substituted By The Offences Against The State (Amendment) Act, 1998)

What this form is for

• • When a warrant is needed under Section 30(4) of the 1939 Act.
• • For arrests, searches or seizure linked to state security offences.
• • If the court has already authorised a lower‑level warrant and a higher‑level one is required.
• • When the applicant is a State prosecutor or the Director of Public Prosecutions.
• • To document the legal basis and evidence before the warrant is executed.

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

There is no fixed filing deadline; the form must be submitted before the warrant is to be executed, typically within a few days of the investigative request.

Before you submit

• • All parties’ full names and addresses are correct.
• • Statutory reference is exactly ‘Section 30(4) of the Offences Against the State Act 1939’.
• • Judge’s signature and date are present.
• • All supporting affidavits are attached and referenced.
• • Form is printed on A4 paper, legible, and signed in ink where required.
• • Copy of the completed form retained for records.
• • Submission receipt obtained from the court registry.
• • If filing electronically, confirm successful upload confirmation email.
• • Check that the correct court registry (District or Central Criminal) is selected.

How to file this form

1. 1Collect case file and evidence supporting the warrant request.
2. 2Download or obtain the latest Form 17.4.
3. 3Complete all fields, attach annexes, and have the judge sign.
4. 4Submit the form to the appropriate court registry in person or via the e‑filing portal.
5. 5Obtain and file the receipt or electronic confirmation.
6. 6Notify the investigating officer that the warrant is authorised.

Known limitations

• • Form only applies to offences covered by the 1939 Act; not for ordinary crimes.
• • Requires a judge’s signature – cannot be completed by a solicitor alone.
• • Electronic submission may be limited to certain courts.
• • No provision for electronic signatures; ink signature is required.