Singapore is set to strengthen its reputation as a global tech hub by deploying police patrol robots throughout the city-state. Following over five years of extensive trials and small-scale launches, the effective use of these innovative robotic law enforcers has been confirmed.
The robots, standing tall at 1.7 meters, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. They feature cameras, sensors, speakers, a display panel, blinkers, and a siren, enabling them to carry out autonomous patrols. These features equip the robots to enforce a cordon or issue warnings to bystanders in an incident, ahead of the arrival of additional police resources.
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Beyond their capability for autonomous operation, the robots serve as a tool for direct communication between the police and the public.
On Thursday, June 15, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) revealed that since April, two of these patrol robots have been active within the confines of Changi Airport Terminal 4. Here, they’ve been providing additional surveillance and increasing overall security.
The deployment of these robotic patrollers first occurred in public during the Chingay Parade in February 2018, as part of a trial phase. Throughout their development, these police robots have undergone multiple modifications and have been known by various names, including the Multi-purpose All Terrain Autonomous Robot (Matar) 2.0 and 3.0.
Earlier models of the patrol robot were placed at a variety of locations, including Marina Bay during festive seasons. Furthermore, they were present at foreign worker dormitories during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic in Singapore, showcasing their versatility and potential in varied scenarios and locations.
The successful trials and subsequent implementation of these robots confirm Singapore’s commitment to integrating advanced technology in the maintenance of public safety. As they continue to be progressively deployed, these robots will play an increasingly integral role in policing efforts across the city-state.
Based on reporting from The Star
