More cameras, police body cams from Taiwan as SVG moves to strengthen security

By Desrine McTair. Updated 5:00 a.m., Friday, October 13, 2023, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Republic of China (Taiwan) donated 160 Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, 30 mobile/body camera units, and a vehicle license plate identification system to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF).

According to a press release , Taiwan’s latest donation of security equipment signaled the start of phase-two of the “Enhancing Public Safety with Intelligent Video Analytics (EPSIVA)” project for St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

The project will involve an assessment of locations to place the new cameras and maintenance of the existing units. When installed, the number of CCTV cameras providing coverage throughout SVG would increase to 360 units, the press release stated.

The handing out ceremony was held at the Questelles Police Station, Taiwan’s Ambassador to SVG H.E. Fiona Huei-Chun Fan said, Taiwan is a global leader in technology, adding that they are delighted to share the expertise with the government and people of SVG.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance Economic Planning and Information Technology, Hon. Camillo
Gonsalves, applauded the work being done by Taiwan to strengthen security services in SVG. Hon. Camillo Gonsalves said, the latest donation of security equipment will allow the Police to efficiently use available technology to fight crime and keep Vincentians safe.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Christopher Benjamin thanked Taiwan for the continued investment in the security of Vincentians. He said security is an expensive undertaking; therefore, working in partnership with stakeholders is of crucial importance, the press release further stated.