Which of the following is a key component of police powers in New South Wales?

The correct answer highlights the essential principle within New South Wales policing powers, which is the necessity for reasonable grounds before proceeding with arrests and searches. This requirement is grounded in the legal standards that protect individuals' rights while balancing the need for effective law enforcement.

The call for reasonable grounds ensures that police actions are justified and based on credible information or evidence, thus providing a safeguard against arbitrary or excessive use of power. This principle plays a crucial role in maintaining public trust in the policing system, as it requires police officers to act based on a legitimate basis rather than personal whim or suspicion. It serves to uphold the rule of law and prevent abuse of power, ensuring a fair and balanced approach to law enforcement within the community.

In contrast, the other options suggest practices that would erode individual rights and due process. For instance, executing arrests at will without justification, stopping individuals without any restrictions, or conducting searches without cause would violate fundamental legal principles and individual freedoms enshrined in both statutory law and common law. Hence, the emphasis on reasonable grounds is vital in fostering accountability and protecting citizens' rights in the context of police operations.