Results of the 2022 survey of police use of overt surveillance camera systems in public places published by the Office of the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner (OBSCC) reveal the extent of Chinese surveillance cameras used by police and law enforcement agencies. Out of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, along with the British Transport Police, the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, the Ministry of Defence, and the National Crime Agency, the OBSCC found 24 respondents reported using cameras made directly by Chinese manufacturers or using Chinese-made components. Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner Fraser Sampson said, "It is abundantly clear from this detailed analysis of the survey results that the police estate in the UK is shot through with Chinese surveillance cameras. It is also clear that the forces deploying this equipment are generally aware that there are security and ethical concerns about the companies that supply their kit." In November last year, the government issued a security update banning the installation of Chinese surveillance systems. In related news, BBC News reports Wales police forces have decided to freeze the purchase of surveillance equipment.
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