China unveils AI tech to assess suspects' physical and mental states

Chinese companies are developing and showcasing AI-enabled equipment designed to assist law enforcement in assessing suspects' physical and mental conditions. At a recent expo in Beijing, firms demonstrated devices aimed at improving police efficiency and reducing the need for human officers.

Tiandy, a video surveillance supplier, presented a camera system capable of assessing the vital signs of up to six individuals simultaneously within approximately 10 seconds. The technology reportedly achieves over 90% accuracy in measuring metrics such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen level, and blood flow rate. Indicators of elevated blood pressure or heart rate are highlighted on a screen alongside live images.

The company suggested the system could be deployed in interrogation waiting areas, with four cameras monitoring up to two dozen people. Beyond vital signs, Tiandy stated the technology can track detainees' live locations, provide warnings for sudden medical crises, and flag potential breaches of policing protocols, such as leaving a detainee unattended or interrogating a subject with only one officer present.

The International Exhibition and Symposium on Police Equipment and Anti-terrorism Technology and Equipment, held in Beijing, aimed to present the latest law enforcement technologies to domestic and international police forces. During the event, Indonesia indicated interest in acquiring Chinese equipment, particularly in the realm of counterterrorism.