SINGAPORE — Following a successful pilot, Bedok Police Division have launched a project where in-car cameras act as extra “eyes” in the community to deter and solve crimes, such as vehicle theft and theft from vehicles.
About 760 vehicle owners have joined the “Vehicles On Watch” project, which spans 56 car parks in Bedok, Changi, Geylang, Marine Parade, Pasir Ris and Tampines.
The police will assess the project’s effectiveness to see if it will roll it out to other police divisions across the island.
Speaking at the Pasir Ris West Emergency Preparedness Day 2015 today (May 17), where the project was launched, Deputy Prime Minister and Home Affairs Minister Teo Chee Hean said participating residents may be approached by the police for footage from their cameras to assist in investigations.
TODAY understands that for some cases, the footage may be submitted as evidence in court, if required.
“These in-vehicle cameras can serve as extra ‘eyes’ in the community (and) in the carparks by helping to detect and solve crimes committed,” said Mr Teo, adding that the project will be expanded to private estates.
The police is encouraging vehicle owners to purchase in-car cameras that record continuously instead of those that only do so when the engine is running.
Commander of Bedok Police Division Alvin Moh said: “Installation of a 24-hour in-vehicle camera allows for the vehicle’s surroundings to be recorded even after the vehicle is parked. With more in-vehicle cameras watching, residents can look forward to safer car parks and safer neighbourhoods.”
Some Pasir Ris residents TODAY spoke to said they would be happy to participate in the community policing project, citing their experiences with having to fork out money for repairs of scratches and dents caused by other cars.
Mr Tog Chek Soon, 50, who had a camera installed in his car today, said he decided to sign up for the project to help his neighbours keep a lookout.
Although the 24-hour in-car camera cost him about S$300, Mr Wong Peng Thim, 58, felt it was a worthwhile investment compared to the S$600 he had to pay in repairs for his car.
