Mobile police scanner detects guns without putting officers at risk
Last updated 18/06/2009 09:22:44
Mobile police scanner detects guns without putting officers at risk
Police could now identify criminals carrying guns and knives without putting themselves in the line of attack - thanks to a prototype scanner.
The new technology uses electro magnetic waves in order to pick up 'reflections' from concealed guns, gun barrels or knives without the need to be close to the subject.
It also uses ‘neural network' technology - as used in automatic number plate recognition systems - to identify the weapon and ignore everyday items carried by the subject. The new device is non-intrusive - no image of the subject's body is produced.
The research, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, is sponsored and supported by the Metropolitan Police and the Home Office Scientific Development Branch.
Catherine Coates, the council's head of innovation, said: "This device could save lives and free up valuable policing time currently taken up with gun and knife detection."
Professor Nick Bowring, from Manchester Metropolitan University and lead investigator on the project said: "This is a world first and a success for British science. This device means UK police will be able to lead the way in accurate mobile gun and knife detection without putting themselves in the line of attack."
Stuart Ibbotson, Metropolitan Police chief engineer, said: "We are still at early stages and a way off deploying operational capability yet, but so far results are very encouraging. "
Tests are currently being carried out by the Metropolitan Police Operational Technology Department to see how the scanner could work in practice. If successful, the finished product could be available to police forces within 2 years.
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