Many times we underestimate the technological capabilities police have in terms of protecting our society. The latest in police equipment was recently on display during the Police Technology Exhibition held at Al Ain Colleges. The event was organised by Al Ain Men's College Higher Diploma Graduate and Brigadier General Ali Nasser Al Yabhouni who is currently the director of central operations at the local police department.
The Abu Dhabi Police are leaders in the Middle East in the use of multiple, cutting-edge and sophisticated technology in all facets of police work from crime prevention to department administration. During the exhibition, students had the opportunity to lay their hands on the most modern policing equipment.
"When I joined the police force, the first thing that impressed me was their technology," Al Yabhouni said. "I was not aware of their modern methods of policing and after being astonished by what I observed, I decided I wanted to share this experience with students."
Modern technology
The police demonstrated to the community how advanced technology is used in police work. Among the latest technology exhibited was the eye scan system, the closed televised surveillance system, the patrol mechanical information system, the mechanical alarm system and TETRA, a secure police communications system.
"What astonished me the most are the camera and communication system technologies," Al Yabhouni said. "And I made sure that students were able to see how they work and what role they play in protecting society."
A new form of communication
Tikra, a communication network like GSM, is its own private network especially created for use by police in emergency situations. The secret behind the success of this technology, according to Al Yabhouni, is its operation at different frequency levels from other common networks, allowing it to function flawlessly and efficiently.
"Take the tornado that occurred in Oman as an example," said Al Yabhouni. "Emergency officers were unable to communicate through the common networks like GSM, however they were able to use the secure Tikra network to complete their emergency procedures."
Among other technologies that were demonstrated were technical support systems, where police can remotely access emergency victims for support using the latest communication technologies.
Not just toys for boys
Student responses to these technologies were remarkable. Of the 3,000 students who attended the event, 2,400 were female.
"It goes to show that such fields do not interest only males as the stereotype usually implies," Al Yabhouni said. "It inspires everyone, and it's important that we as a society understand the important role the police play in serving the needs of our community."
Equal opportunities
Brent Mills, director of Al Ain Colleges, referred to the event as a win-win occasion in which both parties had an opportunity to engage in a learning experience.
"The exhibition provided students an opportunity to learn more about careers with the police force while also giving the police an opportunity to learn more about the many skills and strengths that our graduates have to offer," he said.
