Drones to monitor footy games, crowds under new Victoria Police counter-terror strategy
THE Novichok nerve agent attack in the UK has “heightened” Victoria Police’s preparedness for such threats, as a bold new counter-terrorism strategy was unveiled today.
Law & Order
Don't miss out on the headlines from Law & Order. Followed categories will be added to My News.
DRONES will be used to monitor crowds at large events like football matches as part of a bold new counter-terrorism strategy.
Elite tech experts will also be used to help decode encrypted data communications as part of
the three-year plan.
Assistant Commissioner Ross Guenther said the Novichok nerve agent attack in Salisbury, in the United Kingdom, had “heightened” their preparedness for such attacks.
“Three years ago chemical and biological (agents) were not on our radar as a main risk but there is no doubt after incidents of state-sponsored activity has heightened our awareness and preparedness,” he said.
CARPARK JUNKIE DEN METRES FROM VICTORIA’S PARLIAMENT
CONVICTED COP KILLER KEEN TO TESTIFY IN COURT
UNION WORKERS TO RAKE IT IN ON VICTORIAN PROJECTS
AC Guenther said today that the drone plan is expected take flight at venues such as Federation Square, Etihad Stadium and the MCG over the next two years.
“Drones would monitor crowd movement, entry and departure points and provide information about the behaviour of people approaching a venue,” Assistant Commissioner Ross Guenther told reporters today.
“If someone approached a venue with a backpack and put it down and left it there, the drone could send that information back to command and front line resources would be on hand to respond.”
Anti-terror measures including airport-style scanners and clear plastic bags at crowded sporting venues are also still in motion.
AC Guenther said negotiations with parties including the AFL, Cricket Australia and the MCC were ongoing.
“This is not on the back burner,” he said.
“It will take some agreement... but negotiations are taking place and do take time.”
Police were also set to recruit “smart young people” to analyse data and monitor communications through social media, AC Guenther added.