NEW DELHI: Delhi police has identified more than 2,500 people with criminal backgrounds through Facial Recognition System deployed around the protest site at Jantar Mantar, news agency PTI reported, citing sources.”The technology has so far helped identify over 2,500 persons with criminal antecedents. It acts as a strong deterrent and allows us to keep a close watch on those who may attempt to misuse the protest to create law and order problems,” sources told PTI. According to the sources, the FRS units have been positioned at key entry and exit points around the protest site and are directly linked to the Delhi Police database.”The objective is to ensure that people with criminal backgrounds do not exploit the protest to create law and order issues,” sources told PTI.”The system is connected with the Delhi Police database and can identify wanted criminals, absconders, history-sheeters, and Bad Characters (BCs) whose details already exist in police records,” they added.According to an officer, the FRS does not target ordinary protesters but is meant to identify those with criminal antecedents who may attempt to take advantage of large gatherings.”These are high-resolution cameras capable of capturing facial images even from a distance. Once a face is captured, it is quickly matched with the police database. If a wanted or absconding accused is detected, the concerned police unit is immediately alerted, and legal action can be initiated without delay,” he said.Police said the technology will also help identify habitual offenders who have repeatedly figured in criminal cases and are listed as “Bad Characters” in Delhi Police records.”The deployment acts as both a preventive and investigative tool. It helps us remain alert against anti-social elements who may try to infiltrate the protest, create a nuisance, or disturb law and order,” another officer said.The installation of the FRS forms part of enhanced security arrangements around Jantar Mantar.
