Sharjah, UAE: Sharjah Police have initiated the deployment of an advanced system integrating live biometric facial recognition technology in patrol cars to enhance operational efficiency and streamline criminal investigations.

This technology is embedded in smart cameras on patrol vehicles, facilitating real-time data analysis and identification.

The system connects to various databases maintained by relevant authorities, allowing for instantaneous cross-checking against a police watchlist when a match is found, prompting immediate alerts for law enforcement action.

Major Dr. Saeed Bin Hada, Head of the Innovation Branch at Sharjah Police, highlighted the system's capabilities, stating, "This system works with the help of AI in the smart patrols.

It will enable facial recognition, and we will receive notifications if a wanted person is spotted on the streets." The implementation will begin with a trial phase before a scheduled phased rollout of further upgrades.

In addition to facial recognition, the patrol system is equipped to recognize license plates of wanted vehicles, identify speeding cars, and detect driving violations, such as smoking or mobile phone use while driving.

This initiative is part of a broader suite of smart technologies employed by Sharjah Police to foster improved traffic management and public safety, which also includes the deployment of drones for traffic surveillance.

As part of a progressive overhaul of traffic management, Major Dr. Bin Hada is leading efforts to leverage advanced technologies, aiming to create safer and smarter roads.

This ambition includes upgrading Sharjah’s traffic monitoring infrastructure through the use of smart surveillance systems and artificial intelligence, which facilitates real-time analysis of traffic patterns.

This approach assists in managing congestion while enhancing traffic law enforcement.

To address the persistent issue of speeding, predictive technologies have been introduced to detect violations before they occur, aiming for prompt interventions.

The adoption of automated speed monitoring systems is anticipated to lead to a reduction in traffic accidents.

The strategy also emphasizes the analysis of driver behavior using big data analytics.

By monitoring patterns, authorities can implement targeted initiatives, including awareness campaigns and infrastructure adjustments, to improve overall road safety.

Collaboration is a significant aspect of this strategic vision.

Major Bin Hada underscores the importance of partnerships with local and international entities such as technology firms and research institutions to develop tailored innovative solutions for local traffic challenges.

Further enhancements to traffic safety include the installation of smart traffic systems, such as interactive traffic signals and intelligent monitoring devices, which assess real-time road conditions, improving hazard response and traffic management.

In a move towards ensuring the reliability and security of these systems, Major Bin Hada has prioritized cybersecurity measures to protect traffic management systems from potential threats, affirming the integrity of collected data.

The launch of the new patrol system coincided with the inaugural Sharjah Security Innovation Forum, where Colonel Mohammad Alay Al Naqbi, Director of the Sharjah Traffic and Patrol Department, spoke about the collaborative efforts with the Transport Authority to improve traffic flow and emergency response systems across the city.

The integration of this advanced patrol system enables automatic synchronization of traffic signals, prioritizing lanes for emergency vehicles and streamlining responses to urgent reports.

The Sharjah Police have also reached various milestones in fostering innovation, including the organization of over 15 exhibitions showcasing innovative ideas, and the establishment of operational indicators and incubators dedicated to innovation in cybersecurity and technical support.

They have registered 191 intellectual property rights and have conducted numerous workshops, emphasizing their commitment to innovation in modern law enforcement.

As these initiatives develop, Sharjah aims to set a benchmark in traffic safety and innovation, focusing on strategic partnerships and data-driven approaches.

The ongoing adoption of smart technologies by Sharjah Police is expected to significantly enhance public safety and operational efficiency.