120,000 CCTV cameras installed in Ajman in safety drive

Police said a three-year initiative to increase surveillance had proved a success

About 120,000 CCTV cameras have been installed across Ajman since 2017. Getty

Police in Ajman said a three-year operation to install 120,000 surveillance cameras across the emirate has helped drive down crime rates.

CCTV cameras have been fitted at more than 3,000 buildings, including residential apartment blocks, shops and hotels.

The For Your Protection initiative was rolled out in 2017 on the directive of Ajman’s executive council to help bolster community safety.

“Since the project’s launch, Ajman Police has intensified surveys and field visits to follow up on the installation of cameras in residential buildings, shops, hotels and other different types of establishments,” said Lt Col Mohammed bin Yafour Al Ghafli, deputy head of Ajman police’s CID.

“The project has greatly contributed to a huge drop in the numbers of thefts and serious crimes.”

Launched by police, the initiative was carried out with support from specialist companies to ensure the cameras were placed in the optimal locations.

Cameras were installed in old and new buildings, and in all venues where events are held, following meetings with their owners.

In April, restaurants and bakeries in Ajman were ordered to install CCTV cameras in kitchens after a bakery worker was caught spitting into bread dough.

The employee was arrested when officials received a video of the incident from a disgruntled customer.