Assessment of the effectiveness of CCTV cameras in crime control and management. A case study of Kabalagala

Abstract

The study focused on the assessment of effectiveness of Closed-Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) in crime control and management. The objective of the study was to explore the extent and assess CCTV cameras‟ effectiveness in control and management of crime in Uganda, particularly areas controlled by Kabalagala Police Division in Makindye East, Kampala District. The study was guided by the following objectives: (i) to examine the extent to which the CCTV cameras are being used in crime control and management by Kabalagala Police Division, (2) to determine the evaluate the capabilities of CCTV cameras in crime control and management, and (3) to identify operational challenges in the use of CCTV Cameras and suggest guidelines required for their effective use. A case study research design was used. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study took place in Kampala District, specifically in the jurisdiction of Kabalagala Police Division in Makindye Division. Findings revealed that utilization of CCTV cameras is high as Police uses CCTV cameras to track movement of criminals, stolen property like motor vehicles, and motor cycles in addition to general surveillance and monitoring of various activities in the area. Additionally, the study revealed that CCTV systems have many capabilities including assisting crime investigators with imagery evidence for prosecution of offenders. The study also cited poor accountability of CCTV operators‟ allowances, limited number of experienced CCTV operators, low motivation, and inadequate logistical support among others as the most pressing challenges facing CCTV camera operators. It was concluded that effectiveness of CCTV cameras requires a swift and guided response effort as alerted by the CCTV operators. Further, it was also concluded that coordination of CCTV systems operators with field response teams is crucial for effective surveillance. It is thus recommended that Uganda Police, especially Kabalagala police division should emphasize refresher course for CCTV operators to boost incident reporting skills. In addition, Government should introduce a policy where all private commercial and non-commercial must install CCTV cameras to increase surveillance aiming at controlling and managing crime in areas where that are not currently covered. Further, the study recommends the installation of CCTV cameras on many streets and roads for curbing crime related to car theft. There is also the need to involve all stakeholders including community participation to ensure sustainability of CCTV projects. Finally, there is an urgent need for the government to come up with policy guidelines which sets out standards and conditions to be adopted in the operation of CCTV cameras schemes.