Punjab boosts police accountability with body cams

The Punjab government has launched a body-worn camera system for police personnel as part of efforts to strengthen accountability, improve public safety and modernise law enforcement.

The initiative has initially been introduced in Lahore on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Trained police officers have been equipped to use the cameras during their duties, while installation of docking stations at police stations is also under way.

The cameras will be used by personnel from the Punjab Police, Punjab Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force and traffic police. The system will be connected with the Smart Safe City network operating in 43 cities across the province, enabling district-level Safe City control rooms to monitor police activity.

The devices are equipped with several advanced features, including facial recognition and automatic vehicle number plate recognition. They can also issue immediate alerts in case of potential threats or emergencies.

The body cameras allow officers to record video and audio, capture photographs and make calls while performing their duties. Built-in storage enables them to retain recordings throughout their shifts.

Once an officer completes a duty shift, the camera must be returned to a designated docking station. The recorded material will then be automatically transferred from the device and stored securely in the system.

The cameras also include a push-to-talk facility, allowing police officials to communicate directly with control rooms. An SOS button has also been incorporated to enable officers to quickly send emergency alerts when assistance is required.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the new system would improve police monitoring and help prevent corrupt practices. She stressed that ensuring the safety and security of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, should remain a key measure of the initiative’s success.