29 July 2008
Press release from British Transport Police - Scottish Area
BTP ahead of the game on the Glasgow Subway
For the first time British Transport Police (BTP) officers will wear head-mounted cameras as they patrol the Glasgow Subway to monitor crowds travelling to large scale events – particularly football matches.
The two-month trial period will see the Subway’s Neighbourhood Police team wear the lightweight cameras, which can be attached to a headband, hat or uniform. The camera is then connected to recording equipment strapped to the officers, which leaves their hands free to record any incident or crowd movement.
The cameras are positioned in such a way that they can record whatever the officer is looking at and the footage can then be downloaded easily on to computer or DVD.
Alex McGuire, Chief Inspector (Operational Support) of British Transport Police, said:
“We are always keen to utilise technology that assists our officers and this system is considered to be an effective way of reducing crime. Headcams are already used extensively by our officers on the London Underground and have proved invaluable in helping reassure staff and passengers. If the trial period is successful it is hoped to utilise them on a permanent basis and roll out te equipment across the remainder of the rail network.”
The equipment can also be used to build up intelligence and gather evidence.
The use of the cameras is supported by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), operators of the Subway.
Donnie MacLeod, Head of Security at SPT added:
“Security on the Subway network is a priority for us. We want to make sure that those passengers who travel on the Subway and our staff doing their day to day work can do so without inconvenience, hindrance or being subjected to anti-social behaviour of any kind. Any technology which enhances passenger safety is worth funding consideration and we’re delighted to support this initiative.”
Notes for editors
For more information contact:
David Hodgson
British Transport Police - Scottish Area
email: David.Hodgson@btp.pnn.police.uk
About British Transport Police - Scottish Area
The Scottish Area of British Transport Police covers the National Rail system throughout Scotland and the Glasgow Subway. It employs 226 police officers and 31 police staff.
British Transport Police is the specialist, national police service for Britain’s railways. BTP deals with major and minor crime, disorder and incidents, and covers the rail system in England, Wales and Scotland, including London Underground, Docklands Light Railway, the Glasgow Subway and the Midland Metro and Croydon Tramlink systems. Its 2,800 police officers, 200 Police Community Support Officers, 260 Special Constables and 1,200 support staff are recruited and trained like those of local forces and have the same powers. Find out more at http://www.btp.police.uk
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