Safety boost: 73,375 CCTV cameras installed in RAK buildings

As many as 73,375 CCTV cameras have been installed inside and outside of buildings in Ras Al Khaimah in the first half of 2017 as part of the 'Himaya' or 'Protection' system.

The comprehensive surveillance system has been instructed by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, to enhance safety, security, and stability in the emirate, and reach zero percent crimes by 2021.

Brigadier Jamal Ahmed Al Tair, Chairman of the General Resources Authority, RAK Police, on Tuesday said over 10,000 out of 16,000 buildings targeted have observed the law No. 3/2015 under the supervision of the RAK Police and the General Resources Authority.

"These entities include a big number of centres, shops, establishments, government departments, public institutions, mosques, hospitals, schools, hotels, rest houses, jewelry shops, villas, as well as residential towers and buildings."

The 73,375 CCTV cameras installed include 43,209 internal cameras, and 30,188 external cameras, he added. "This is a record achievement that reflects a complete awareness of the importance of the Himaya System."

Brig. Al Tair said the move is in line with a global scheme that depends on advanced technological systems to enhance security. "The new system helps detect and curb crimes, track and catch criminals in a record time."

The RAK police have so far accredited 84 out of 100 service providers targeted for the job following a big number of intensive courses.

"We have also qualified and trained 10,656 engineers and technicians at the American University in RAK so that they can professionally sell and install the CCTV cameras in all buildings across the emirate."

He said more courses are planned to train and license a new batch of service providers, engineers and technicians who all have to meet certain conditions and fall under follow-up inspection.

"The General Resources Authority, in collaboration with the Licensure Section of the RAK Police, is launching regular inspection campaigns against all institutions to ensure their compliance with the new system."

Source: Khaleej Times