South Wales and Gwent Police have introduced the Operator Initiated Facial Recognition (OIFR) app, the first of its kind in the UK, allowing officers to confirm a person’s identity in near real-time with just a mobile phone.
This groundbreaking technology enables police to identify individuals who are missing, at risk, wanted, or unable to provide accurate information. It can also assist in identifying deceased or unconscious individuals, ensuring timely and compassionate notifications to their families.
Transforming Policing with Technology
Tested by 70 officers across South Wales, the app proved invaluable in scenarios where individuals refused to identify themselves or provided false details. By comparing a single photograph to the police database, officers can quickly determine if the individual is the person of interest, avoiding unnecessary trips to police stations.
The app does not retain photographs and can only be used in private spaces, such as homes or schools, when there is a risk of significant harm.
Statements from Police Leadership
T/Assistant Chief Constable Trudi Meyrick, South Wales Police:
"Police officers have always been able to spot someone who they think is missing or wanted and stop them in the street. What this technology does is enhance their ability to accurately confirm a person’s identity, helping to ensure a fair and transparent resolution.
"This mobile phone app means that with the taking of a single photograph which is compared to the police database, officers can easily and quickly answer the question of ‘Are you really the person we are looking for?’. When dealing with a person of interest during their patrols in our communities, officers will be able to access instant information allowing them to identify whether the person stopped is, or isn’t, the person they need to speak to, without having to return to a police station.
"This technology doesn’t replace traditional means of identifying people and our police officers will only be using it in instances where it is both necessary and proportionate to do so, with the aim of keeping that particular individual, or the wider public, safe."
T/Assistant Chief Constable Nick McLain, Gwent Police:
"Embracing technology and innovation is an integral part of effective policing and public safety. I am proud that Gwent and South Wales Police are jointly leading the way in this field with the introduction of the first facial recognition app.
"The use of this technology always involves human decision-making and oversight, ensuring that it is used lawfully, ethically, and in the public interest. We have a robust scrutiny process in place to ensure accountability and testing found no evidence of racial, age or gender bias.
"By implementing this app, we are preventing harm, helping those in need and keeping our communities safe."
Trial Results
During the trial, the app was used in 42 instances** involving 35 individuals, with the following results:
- Refused to provide details: 7
- Suspected false details: 18
- Unable to provide details: 17
Grounds for use included:
- Suspected of an offence: 30
- Suspected missing person: 9
- Deceased: 2
- Suspected to suffer harm: 1
Real-World Impact
The app has delivered tangible results, such as:
- Identifying disqualified drivers, leading to vehicle seizures.
- Confirming shoplifters’ identities, enabling swift justice.
- Identifying deceased individuals, expediting formal identification and ensuring families are notified appropriately.
- Locating a missing 15-year-old who refused to provide details, allowing their safe return and contact with their home force.
Technological Advancements in Policing
This initiative demonstrates the commitment of South Wales and Gwent Police to leveraging innovative technologies for public safety and effective law enforcement.
To report any concerns regarding crime, contact your local police force.
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