(NTI, Dehradun): In the age of modern technology, cybercrime has become a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies. Criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to commit crimes in new and sophisticated ways, making it difficult for the police to keep up. To counter this, the Uttarakhand Police is taking decisive steps to upgrade its capabilities and adopt advanced technology, including AI, to address these crimes effectively.
The Role of Technology in Policing
The Indian Judicial Code has recognized the importance of technology-based policing. This shift towards tech-driven investigations is reflected in India’s three new criminal laws, which emphasize smart policing aimed at delivering justice more efficiently. The vision is clear: to speed up the legal process by using technology to gather and present evidence from crime scenes to courts.
As technology continues to advance, so do the methods of criminals. To address these challenges, the Uttarakhand Police is preparing itself by adopting AI for crime investigation and prevention. In a national-level meeting held in Ahmedabad, police officers from across the country discussed AI’s potential in law enforcement, including how it can be leveraged to handle cybercrime more effectively.
Training Cyber Commandos
Uttarakhand Police has begun sending its officers for specialized training in cybercrime. Groups of 10 officers are being trained in Delhi by reputed companies to become cyber commandos. These officers are learning advanced techniques to combat cybercrime and will share their knowledge with other police personnel, thus creating a more technologically adept force.
Once trained, these cyber commandos will have the skills to tackle cybercrime head-on, from identifying cyber threats to neutralizing them. This move reflects Uttarakhand Police’s forward-thinking approach to modern policing.
AI in Policing: A Game-Changer
Artificial intelligence is set to play a crucial role in police operations, from crime scene scanning to facial recognition of suspects. AI will help identify crime patterns, pinpoint high-risk areas, and provide critical clues for investigations. This technology will also enhance the capabilities of forensic teams, making investigations faster and more accurate.
Currently, AI is being most widely used by the traffic police for intelligent traffic management. AI-powered systems are employed to scan number plates, detect traffic violations, and issue fines in real time. While Uttarakhand Police is still in the early stages of adopting these systems, they have already begun using drones and signal cameras for traffic monitoring.
The department is also exploring ways to implement AI in broader crime-fighting efforts. As cases of cybercrime rise, AI’s potential in detecting and preventing cyberattacks becomes more apparent. The Uttarakhand Police is actively working on acquiring high-tech equipment, such as drone cameras and facial recognition tools, to enhance its cybercrime-fighting capabilities.
The Growing Threat of Cybercrime
Cybercrime has emerged as one of the biggest concerns for Uttarakhand Police. In 2023 alone, over 20,000 complaints related to cybercrime were registered, a sharp rise from 13,000 cases in 2022. This alarming increase underscores the urgent need for more sophisticated methods to combat these crimes.
To tackle this growing threat, the Uttarakhand Police is planning to procure state-of-the-art AI equipment and tools to strengthen its operations. According to Nilesh Anand Bharne, IG Law and Order, the department is making significant investments in high-tech devices, including advanced drones, facial recognition cameras, and AI-based software to control cybercrimes.
A Technologically Enhanced Future for Policing
The use of AI and other advanced technologies will revolutionize the way Uttarakhand Police approaches crime prevention and investigation. As the department prepares itself for the future, its officers are gaining the skills and tools needed to meet the challenges of modern-day policing. With cybercrime on the rise, the adoption of AI and the training of cyber commandos will help the police stay ahead of criminals, ensuring safety and justice for the people of Uttarakhand.
