Lahore police to begin using body-worn cameras after training

LAHORE: Training of Punjab Police’s field force in the use of body-worn cameras has been completed, with the system being introduced initially in Lahore.

Docking stations for the cameras are being installed at police stations. The devices will be connected with Smart Safe City systems operating in 43 cities across Punjab and will be used by Punjab Police, Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force and traffic wardens.

The cameras feature digital facial recognition to help identify suspects, along with automated vehicle and motorcycle number-plate recognition.

Officers can also record audio and video, take photographs and send instant threat alerts during emergencies.

After completing their shifts, officers will return the cameras to designated docking stations, where recorded data will be automatically transferred and securely stored. A push-to-talk function will allow officers to contact control rooms directly, while an SOS button will provide an emergency alert facility.

The cameras will also be linked to a central monitoring system, allowing district Safe City control rooms to monitor operations.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the initiative would strengthen monitoring and help curb corruption, while stressing that protecting the lives and property of citizens remained the government’s primary responsibility.