1-3-2024 (SIGNAPROE) In a bid to enhance security and combat crime, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Home Team Science & Technology Agency (HTX) have announced plans to deploy over 200,000 police cameras (PolCams) across the island by the mid-2030s. This ambitious initiative, revealed by Josephine Teo, the Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity, aims to more than double the current number of PolCams in Singapore.
During the recent Committee of Supply debate in parliament on February 29, 2024, Minister Josephine Teo, who also serves as the Second Minister of Home Affairs, emphasized the need to enhance the nation’s sense-making capabilities in order to detect threats earlier and respond more effectively. Teo highlighted the proven efficacy of PolCams in deterring, detecting, and solving crimes, illustrating their impact by citing a significant reduction in property damage cases caused by physical harassment from unlicensed moneylenders since the installation of PolCams in 2012.
According to Teo, in 2012, there were over 7,600 reports of property damage resulting from physical harassment by unlicensed moneylenders. However, by 2023, this number had dropped to fewer than 1,200 cases, showcasing the deterrent effect of PolCams. Furthermore, Teo revealed that PolCams played a crucial role in helping the police solve approximately 7,500 cases. In some instances, the availability of footage, aided by video analytics, enabled the police to swiftly identify, locate, and apprehend suspects within hours of a crime being reported.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has been progressively increasing the deployment of PolCams since their launch in 2012. Over 90,000 PolCams have already been installed in neighborhoods and public areas across the island. However, the upcoming initiative aims to further expand coverage by installing at least 200,000 additional PolCams by 2030. The recent announcement by Minister Josephine Teo indicates an even more ambitious target, with over 200,000 PolCams set to be deployed islandwide by the mid-2030s.
This comprehensive deployment of PolCams is expected to enhance public safety, enable faster response times, and contribute to a more secure environment for Singaporeans. The increased surveillance coverage will provide law enforcement agencies with vital tools to combat crime effectively and ensure a safer future for the nation.
As Singapore continues to prioritize the use of advanced technology for public safety and security, the PolCam initiative represents a significant step forward in leveraging cutting-edge solutions to safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
