Facial recognition, live monitoring: Punjab cops get high-tech body cameras

Punjab on Tuesday started equipping its police personnel with body cameras as part of a new system to improve oversight, public safety and the use of technology in policing.

The initiative, launched on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is initially being introduced in Lahore. Cops trained to operate the cameras are now ready to use them during field duties, while docking stations are being installed at police stations.

The cameras will be used by personnel of the Punjab police, Punjab Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force and traffic police. They will be connected with Smart Safe City systems in 43 cities across Punjab, enabling district Safe City control rooms to monitor operations.

The devices come with several functions designed to assist cops during their duties. They can record video and audio, take photographs and make calls. Their built-in storage will also allow footage to be retained while personnel are in the field.

The cameras are equipped with facial-recognition technology that can assist in identifying suspects. They can also scan vehicle registration plates and issue immediate alerts when a potential threat is detected.

Police officials will have to hand over the cameras at designated docking stations after their shifts. The recorded material will then be transferred automatically from the devices and stored securely.

The system also includes a push-to-talk feature through which personnel can communicate with control rooms. An SOS button will allow them to send an emergency alert when required.