‘Eyes in the Sky’ aids in solving over 8,000 cases

The government’s “Eyes in the Sky” surveillance system has proven to be a significant asset for local law enforcement, aiding in the resolution of over 8,000 cases from January to October 2024 alone.

Leung Man Chiu from the Unitary Police Service announced during yesterday’s TDM’s Macao Forum program that the system has completed five phases of construction and currently operates 1,701 cameras across the region.

Since its inception in 2016, the “Eyes in the Sky” system has contributed to solving more than 28,000 cases.

Leung emphasized on the TDM forum radio show yesterday that the strategic placement and increased number of cameras have played a pivotal role in enhancing case resolution rates. He also revealed plans for a sixth phase of construction to further bolster the system’s capabilities. “Macau will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland next month. It is expected that a number of celebration activities will be held,” he said, underscoring the need for risk assessment and maintaining social stability during this period.

Concerns regarding staffing within customs were addressed by Ip Wa Chiu as assistant commissioner of Customs.

In September 2024, 89 new customs officers were hired to fill roles such as service inspectors and chief customs officers. Ip expressed confidence that these vacancies would be gradually resolved, improving operational efficiency.

In a related discussion, deputy commissioner Leong Heng Hong of Public Security Police Force (PSP)  eported a significant decline in organized illegal gambling activities.

He noted “authorities have intensified their efforts to combat illegal activities through both regular and irregular operations,” enhancing public safety.

The police also expressed the recent use of various media platforms to promote traffic safety awareness.

Leung highlighted the establishment of a liaison mechanism with community associations to address security concerns promptly. This proactive approach allows frontline police units to respond effectively to emerging issues.

Speaking in the same forum,  Judiciary Police (PJ) deputy director Sou Sio Keong noted improvements in rapid response capabilities for serious emergencies over recent years.

He reported that incidents related to gambling and other crimes have decreased compared to 2019, with organized illegal gambling gangs now virtually non-existent.

Following the recent criminalization of illicit money exchange, authorities have made considerable strides in dismantling these operations.

As of November 15, a total of 25 such parties had been disrupted, leading to the arrest of 38 individuals and the seizure of over HKD3.1 million in cash and HKD1.1 million in leveraged assets. Nadia Shaw