To prevent crime and bolster security, authorities in Ras Al Khaimah in UAE say they are preparing for an emirate-wide installation of security cameras at critical buildings, public spaces and streets, police have confirmed. More than 40,000 establishments, most notably federal and local government buildings, are about to be cast under the watchful eye of closed circuit television cameras 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The cameras are part and parcel of a new Ras Al Khaimah Police project dubbed ‘Himyati’, which means security protection in Arabic.
Details about the project were unveiled during a press conference convened by Major General Ali Abdullah Bin Alwan Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-Chief of Ras Al Khaimah Police, at Ras Al Khaimah Police headquarters. Maj Gen Al Nuaimi said there will be no opting out of the programme. CCTV installation will be mandatory in all locations identified as desirable by authorities. The project is expected to take 18 months to complete.
In response to the directives of His Highness Shaikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah Police started the CCTV project last year to identify technical systems for security, Maj Gen Al Nuaimi said. Ras Al Khaimah Police said they informed all government departments about the decision and have given notice they have only two months to install the cameras in their premises.
Anyone violating the rules or who do not comply with the decision will face penalties according to the law, Maj Gen Al Nuaimi said. All government departments, business premises, owners of buildings, parking lots, mosques, vital premises and hotels are being asked to meet the deadline. Other facilities such as bridges, banks, gold shops, and schools will also be placed under digital surveillance as will public transport and taxis in the last stages of the project. The monitoring cameras should meet specifications and should store digital images for up to 90 days, he said. Only police will be allowed to examine the camera in case of any crime in one of those premises.
