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Jacqueline Ntaka

THE recent commissioning of a CCTV surveillance system in Bulawayo marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s journey towards embracing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to combat crime. This initiative is poised to revolutionise the way law enforcement operates in the city centre, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force in maintaining public safety.

CCTV systems, equipped with AI capabilities, offer a myriad of benefits in crime prevention and resolution. These systems provide real-time monitoring of public spaces, allowing for immediate detection and response to criminal activities. The integration of AI enhances these capabilities by enabling advanced video analytics, which can identify suspicious behaviour, recognise faces, and even predict potential criminal activities based on patterns and anomalies detected in the footage. This proactive approach not only aids in the swift apprehension of offenders but also acts as a deterrent to potential criminals who are aware of the heightened surveillance.

One of the primary advantages of AI-enhanced CCTV systems is their ability to process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately. Traditional surveillance methods often require manual monitoring, which can be labour-intensive and prone to human error. In contrast, AI systems can continuously analyse video feeds, flagging unusual activities for further investigation. For instance, if a person is seen loitering in a high-crime area for an extended period, the system can alert the authorities, who can then take appropriate action. This capability significantly reduces the response time of law enforcement, increasing the likelihood of preventing crimes before they occur.

Several cities around the world have successfully implemented CCTV and AI technologies to combat crime, providing valuable case studies for Bulawayo. In the United Kingdom, London is renowned for its extensive use of CCTV cameras. The Metropolitan Police utilise AI to analyse footage from thousands of cameras across the city, helping to identify suspects and gather evidence. This system played a crucial role in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators of the 2017 London Bridge attack, demonstrating the effectiveness of AI in enhancing public safety.

In the United States, the city of Chicago has implemented a sophisticated network of surveillance cameras known as the “Operation Virtual Shield”. This system integrates AI to monitor and analyse video feeds in real-time, allowing the police to respond swiftly to incidents. The use of AI has been instrumental in reducing violent crime rates in the city, as it enables the police to deploy resources more efficiently and effectively.

China has also made significant strides in utilising AI and CCTV for crime prevention. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai have implemented extensive surveillance networks equipped with facial recognition technology. These systems can identify individuals with criminal records or those on watchlists, alerting authorities to their presence in real-time. This technology has been particularly effective in locating and apprehending fugitives, as well as preventing terrorist activities.

In addition to these examples, several other countries are exploring the potential of AI in law enforcement. For instance, Singapore has deployed a network of smart cameras that use AI to detect and respond to various incidents, from illegal parking to more serious crimes. The system’s ability to provide real-time alerts has significantly improved the efficiency of the police force, allowing for quicker responses and better resource allocation.

The implementation of CCTV and AI in Bulawayo is expected to bring about similar benefits. By leveraging these technologies, the city can enhance its crime-fighting capabilities, ensuring a safer environment for its residents. The real-time monitoring and advanced analytics provided by AI will enable the police to respond more swiftly to incidents, while the deterrent effect of increased surveillance will help to reduce crime rates overall.

However, it is essential to address the potential concerns associated with the use of surveillance technologies. Privacy issues are a significant consideration, as the widespread use of CCTV and AI can lead to increased monitoring of individuals’ activities. It is crucial to implement robust data protection measures and ensure that the use of these technologies is transparent and accountable. Public awareness and engagement are also vital in gaining community support for these initiatives, as residents need to understand the benefits and safeguards associated with enhanced surveillance.

Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]