PSCA’s AI-powered surveillance helps police arrest suspects in theft and ATM fraud case

The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA), using advanced surveillance technology and coordinated efforts with law enforcement agencies,

LAHORE, October 12, 2026: The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA), using advanced surveillance technology and coordinated efforts with law enforcement agencies, has assisted police in arresting suspects allegedly involved in a theft and the fraudulent use of a stolen ATM card.

According to a PSCA press release, the incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Kahna Police Station, where suspects allegedly stole a citizen’s wallet containing valuables and personal belongings before escaping. The suspects subsequently began using the stolen ATM card to make purchases, prompting the victim to take notice of the unauthorised transactions.

The victim discovered the incident after receiving transaction notifications on the mobile phone registered with the bank account. Upon realising that the ATM card had been stolen and used without permission, the citizen promptly reported the matter to the relevant authorities for investigation and legal action.

Following the complaint, a Virtual Patrolling Officer at the Punjab Safe Cities Authority initiated coordination efforts to trace the individuals allegedly involved in the crime. The authority employed its advanced surveillance network and technological resources to help identify the suspects and gather information that could assist the investigation.

AI-powered surveillance cameras played a key role in identifying the vehicle allegedly used by the suspects during the incident. Through analysis of the vehicle’s registration number and available data, authorities were able to collect important information to help establish the suspects’ identities and movements.

The PSCA subsequently shared the vehicle’s details and other relevant information with the concerned police officials. This coordination enabled the police to act promptly and arrest the suspects allegedly involved in the theft and fraudulent transactions.

The development highlights the role of technology-assisted surveillance in supporting police investigations and responding to reported criminal incidents. By combining camera footage, data analytics and virtual patrolling, the authority aims to provide law enforcement agencies with timely information that can help trace suspects and strengthen evidence-based investigations.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Safe Cities Authority said that AI-enabled cameras, data analytics and virtual patrolling were increasingly contributing to efforts to identify criminal activities and locate individuals suspected of involvement in offences.

The spokesperson added that the authority continues to use modern technology to assist law enforcement agencies, improve investigative capabilities and protect the lives and property of citizens. The integration of surveillance systems with police coordination is intended to facilitate faster responses and support action against criminal activity.

The spokesperson further stated that joint efforts involving the Crime Control Department (CCD), Lahore Police and the Punjab Safe Cities Authority were continuing to address criminal activities and improve public safety across the city.

The authority also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report criminal incidents or suspicious activities without delay. Members of the public can contact Police Emergency Helpline 15 to report an incident and seek assistance from the relevant authorities.

The case underscores the importance of cooperation between citizens, surveillance authorities and police in addressing theft and financial fraud. Timely reporting by the victim, combined with technological assistance and coordination among law enforcement agencies, helped police move forward with the investigation and arrest the suspects.

Authorities continue to encourage the public to report unauthorised financial transactions and suspected criminal activity promptly so that appropriate action can be taken in accordance with the law.