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BACSA leads ANPR technology

Business Against Crime South Africa is leading the Automatic Number Plate Recognition Project which assists SAPS in the recovery of stolen, cloned and wanted vehicles. At the same time, it is an effective pro-active tool in detecting and deterring potential violent crime.

The SAPS has endorsed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) as a national project in terms of the SAPS / BACSA MOU signed by the National Commissioner of Police and BACSA chief executive.

The project includes the following:

* Technology enhancements.

* Setting up an ANPR Project Steering Committee comprising state and private sector representatives.

* Enlarging the current footprint of cameras linked to the ANPR project.

* Establishing a national control centre to supplement the processes.

* Implementation of standards and communication protocols.

* Institutionalising ANPR within the SAPS.

The long-term vision of the ANPR system encompasses the further development of the technology infrastructure to manage the anticipated data increases from the additional sites.

The current BACSA ANPR project has resulted in over 1100 vehicles being recovered and over 150 arrests made. The estimated value of the recovered vehicles at a conservative estimate is R40.9 million. Since inception of the project, more than 550 vehicles have been impounded at sites sponsored by BACSA and its partners.

Government has realised the value add of the ANPR system in curbing serious crime in the country. As a result, the recently appointed Minister of Police considers ANPR to be a priority initiative in this partnership with BACSA through the recently signed MOU between SAPS and BACSA and has become one of his key priorities.

The ANPR accounted for the identification of 85 cloned vehicles and continues to be a successful tool used by law enforcement agencies.

This is a critical initiative to not only detect stolen vehicles but also to warn communities and businesses of future potential serious crimes. BACSA appeals to all businesses to assist us in expanding the ANPR footprint across the country. There is great value add for shopping malls, and business premises. For more information, please email info@bac.org.za

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