New cameras at Marienplatz: security or surveillance espionage?

New cameras at Marienplatz: security or surveillance espionage?

In Schwerin, the police at Marienplatz are pulling out all the stops for more security: a modern video surveillance system will be installed there from Monday. This measure follows several incidents and the realization that Marienplatz is considered a crime hotspot. This new technology is intended not only to better protect citizens, but also to increase the clearance rate for crimes.

The old cameras had been failing since the beginning of the year due to a server defect. However, the city has responded quickly: 24 new fixed cameras will be installed in the coming days, more than ever before. These cameras will also cover areas that were previously considered blind spots. This not only improves the surveillance situation, but also the feeling of security of the people on site. The Ministry of the Interior emphasizes that the entire surveillance system had to be brought up to date, with the city of Schwerin covering half of the costs.

An experienced partner at your side

An interesting facet of these measures is the scientific support of video surveillance. Since the introduction of the first cameras at the end of 2018, new technology has been evaluated by the Güstrow University of Applied Sciences. It was found that video surveillance actually contributes to a shift in crimes from the dark field to the bright field. Fortunately, the willingness to report cases increased in the first year of monitoring because victims hope that the images will provide better clarification of their concerns. These results will be presented to the main committee and underline the commonality between the police and the municipal security service in the security strategy.

The positive news also includes the fact that in 12 cases helpless or missing people were found using the video images. Thus, video surveillance has not only proven to be an interesting measure to reduce crime, but in a larger context it could also contribute to improving general security in the city.

How video surveillance works

According to experts, it is clear that visible cameras in urban areas deter potential criminals. Numerous studies have shown that the presence of surveillance cameras reduces crime rates. The surveillance systems also provide valuable evidence that can help identify suspects and reconstruct crime sequences. These materials can even be used as evidence in court proceedings.

In summary, it can be seen that the new video surveillance at Marienplatz is not just intended as a short-term solution, but rather as part of a more comprehensive security concept that aims to sustainably improve the quality of urban living. The entire project will show widespread visible progress in the next few days as Marienplatz becomes a safer place for everyone.