BEIJING – Beijing is now entirely covered by surveillance cameras which watch over “every corner” of the city, state media People’s Daily said in a report on Monday.
The video surveillance system, dubbed “Sky Net,” has been continuously upgraded since 2012 and for the first time covered the city 100% during this year’s National Day holiday, according to a statement by the Beijing Public Security Bureau.
The number of cameras in Beijing streets rose by 29% last year, the bureau said via its official account on the Twitter-like Weibo platform.
Increased video surveillance was part of the authorities’ effort to tighten security in the capital and fight “crimes in crowds,” People’s Daily said. Police presence in public places including markets, bus stations and parks has also increased.
Sky Net has helped improve police efficiency in solving crimes, the Beijing PSB said. Thanks to surveillance cameras, officers detained 5% more suspects this year compared with last year, according to the bureau.
