Under which of the following circumstances is the use of force permitted?

The use of force is permitted under the circumstance of preventing an offence because it aligns with the principles of self-defense and the protection of public safety. When an individual perceives an immediate threat to themselves or others, or when they are in a situation where a crime is about to be committed, they may justifiably use reasonable and necessary force to prevent that offence from occurring.

This principle is rooted in the idea that intervening to stop a crime protects not only the individual but also the community at large. It is essential to recognize that the force used must be proportional to the threat faced and should always aim to de-escalate the situation whenever possible.

In contrast, using force for reasons such as punishment, debt collection, or personal satisfaction does not meet the legal or ethical standards that justify the application of force. These reasons do not align with the principles of legal authority or the standards of conduct in security and law enforcement.