More CCTV cameras in Colombo

Ridma Dissanayake

The Police Department has taken measures to install more Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in Colombo district to enhance surveillance,prevent crimes and detect drivers and passengers who violate traffic laws. The Police Department had installed 108 CCTV cameras worth Rs.350 million at 28 locations in 2010. These CCTV cameras are monitored by a special unit from the Mounted Police Division Building which is situated in Olcott Mawatha.

All these cameras will have the automated facial and automated number plate recognition facility. According to that the Police can identify individuals and vehicle numbers through these cameras.

CCTV cameras were installed at the Thummulla Junction, Liptons Circus, near flyovers, high security areas and at Maradana in 2010. Police have all the facilities needed to monitor crimes which take place within the city, traffic violators.

These cameras will be helpful to identify criminals who evade arrest after committing crimes, Police sources said.

Police believe that the installation of more CCTV cameras will have a considerable impact to reducing crimes and traffic violations in public places.

It will also help maintain a peaceful environment in crowded places, such as, railway stations and bus stops, etc.

CCTV camera systems are used around the world to aid Police investigations. Crimes, such as, bank robberies have been solved using this camera system. Using CCTV cameras not only helps in crime prevention, but also in crime detection and prosecution as well.