Singapore to install hundreds more surveillance cameras
(AFP)
Singapore will install hundreds more surveillance cameras on its
streets, including around a central district where the World Bank
and International Monetary Fund (IMF) meetings will be held in
September, a report has said.
The closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras will be linked to a new system
at the police headquarters which the Straits Times said "could
eventually be smart enough to spot unlawful and suspicious acts,
from theft to a person planting a hidden explosive."
Cameras will be installed to monitor traffic junctions and on lamp
posts and poles around the city -- where the World Bank and the IMF
will hold their annual meetings in September.
About 16,000 delegates from more than 180 countries, including
heads of governments, finance chiefs, central bankers and chief
executives of leading corporations, are expected to attend the
meetings and related events.
The cameras should enable authorities not only to monitor traffic
but also to review street scenes to track down suspects in the
event of a terrorist strike, the report said.
Current CCTV surveillance of other areas have been credited for a
reduction in crime rates.
Last year, the transport minister said the government was "actively
looking" into installing CCTV cameras on buses as part of stepped
up security measures in the city-state, a staunch US ally which
fears it is on the list of targets of regional and international
terrorist groups.
It has increased security at border entry points, the subway
system, sensitive installations and public places frequented by
foreigners.
Among other measures are restrictions on the sale of pre-paid
mobile phone cards in a bid to curb their use by terrorist and
criminal groups, including detonating bombs by remote
control.
Authorities have also restricted the entry of trucks carrying
petrol and other flammable materials into the central business
district amid fears terror groups could use these vehicles as
weapons.
Copyright © 2006 AFP. All rights reserved.
