Mangaluru
CCTV cameras have assisted the police in arresting suspects in two major dacoity cases reported within a month. Beat constables are now tasked with checking the functionality of these cameras throughout the commissionerate limits. Night checkposts have been activated to monitor the entry and exit points into the city.
City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal informed the media that the public had been encouraged to install CCTV cameras even before the recent dacoity incidents. Residents, especially those staying alone, senior citizens, or those leaving their homes empty, are advised to inform the local police station so that beat police can keep a watch. Police verification of domestic staff is also essential.
The Commissioner mentioned that night checkposts have been reactivated, governing the city’s entry and exit points. However, recent heavy rain has made detecting sound and movements challenging, allowing the accused to take advantage.
In the Ulaibettu dacoity case reported on June 21, the accused managed to escape due to the absence of checkposts. A manpower shortage, especially during back-to-back bandobast or law and order issues, was acknowledged. Reserve staff have been deployed at the checkposts for now.
All citizens, including homeowners and shopowners, are urged to install CCTV cameras inside and outside their properties. The goal is to cover every dark corner, black spot, and blind spot with CCTV cameras. About 25,000 cameras are in the public safety network, but some are not functioning. Beat constables are checking each house or shop to ensure the cameras are operational, Agrawal added.
