The Japanese government is planning to develop drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and cameras capable of automatically identifying suspicious individuals in disaster-stricken areas. This initiative aims to enhance crime prevention efforts following past incidents where criminal activities, such as burglaries, occurred in evacuated zones after disasters.
The AI-equipped drones are designed to supplement police patrols in these vulnerable areas. When the drone detects a person or vehicle during its patrol, it will react to the movement and transmit the image to a remote monitor. Unlike traditional drones that require continuous monitoring, these AI-powered drones can autonomously detect and alert operators to suspicious activity.
Private security companies have already developed and tested similar AI-equipped drones, some of which can autonomously track suspicious individuals after detection. The government plans to deploy its own drones in disaster areas as soon as possible, potentially leveraging existing private sector technology.
In addition to these autonomous drones, the government is considering the use of wired drones, which can fly for extended periods due to their continuous power supply, allowing for longer surveillance in disaster zones.
The focus on drone patrols in disaster areas is a response to numerous instances of break-ins and burglaries in homes and vehicles following major earthquakes and tsunamis. Recent criminal activities reported in Ishikawa Prefecture after the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January have underscored the urgency of this initiative.
The government recognizes the need for immediate action to prevent further crimes in disaster-affected regions and is prioritizing the deployment of these advanced drones to safeguard vulnerable communities.
