UPDATE: The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that their new live facial recognition (LFR) technology has led to an astonishing 249 arrests in Croydon since its launch in October 2023. This pilot program, aimed at addressing crime in the area, marks a significant development in law enforcement’s use of advanced surveillance tools.
Police mounted LFR cameras on street furniture across Croydon, specifically targeting this “crime hotspot” to monitor wanted criminals. The technology is activated only during police deployments, ensuring focused and responsible use. The rapid success of this initiative has sparked widespread attention and debate.
Since the start of 2024, a total of 1,700 offenders have been apprehended across London using LFR, with a significant emphasis on those wanted for serious crimes, including violence against women and girls. Among the arrests in Croydon is a woman who evaded capture for over 20 years, as well as a suspect wanted for kidnap and another for breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The Metropolitan Police, led by Lindsey Chiswick, have hailed the results as proof of the technology’s effectiveness. Chiswick stated, “The increase in LFR deployments across crime hotspots in London is driven by its proven impact and success.” She emphasized that public support for LFR remains high, with 85% of Londoners reportedly backing its use to enhance safety.
However, the implementation of LFR technology is not without controversy. The Equality and Human Rights Commission previously criticized the policy, labeling it “unlawful” and expressing concerns over potential infringements on individual rights during protests. Civil liberties advocates, such as Big Brother Watch, argue that this technology risks transforming the UK into an “open prison.”
In response to these criticisms, the Metropolitan Police maintain that their use of LFR is both lawful and necessary for public safety. The Home Office is currently conducting a ten-week consultation to discuss how facial recognition technology should be regulated, with a focus on protecting privacy rights.
As the debate continues, police forces across the UK are expanding their use of facial recognition technology. In November, additional police departments—including those in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire—rolled out their own LFR initiatives, joining the Metropolitan Police in this rapidly evolving landscape.
The implications of this technology are profound, with a clear focus on enhancing public safety while navigating the complexities of privacy and civil liberties. With 249 arrests already made in Croydon, all eyes are on how this pilot program will influence future law enforcement strategies and public policy.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
