Key facts
- Private mall security cameras are being considered for integration into Hong Kong's police surveillance network.
- The government is seeking HK$4 billion for the expansion of the "SmartView" CCTV program.
- The goal is to have approximately 60,000 cameras across the territory by 2028.
- Facial recognition technology is being studied for future application in identifying individuals.
- The existing system has assisted in solving hundreds of criminal cases and led to numerous arrests.
Hong Kong is nearing the final stages of integrating security cameras from private shopping centers into its police surveillance network, according to Security Secretary Chris Tang. The initiative is part of the broader "SmartView" program, which aims to bolster public safety and crime detection through expanded camera coverage and advanced technologies.
The government is requesting HK$4 billion to fund the addition of approximately 20,000 cameras annually, with a target of 60,000 cameras across the territory by 2028. The cost primarily covers network infrastructure and data management systems, with the cameras themselves representing a small fraction of the total expenditure.
The existing "SmartView" system, which includes 3,985 installed cameras and an additional 4,835 integrated from other government departments, has already been credited with solving hundreds of cases and leading to nearly 800 arrests. Authorities are also studying the future application of artificial intelligence, including facial recognition, to further enhance law enforcement capabilities.