"This project is a testament to our dedication to 'Working together to keep you safe.' The CCTV system will improve safety and security and support the Bermuda Police Service in their vital work," said Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP.

Minister Weeks welcomes the first phase of the promised Island-wide CCTV project, marking a significant milestone in the Government's commitment to bolster safety and security across Bermuda.

The first phase will focus on the City of Hamilton and the Island's central parishes. This stage commenced in early September and is scheduled for completion in the coming weeks.

Once the system is fully implemented, more than 247 cameras will be installed, including Multisensory, License Plate Recognition (LPR), Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ), and Varifocal cameras.

The cameras will be supported by advanced analytics technology, allowing for capabilities including recognising vehicle license plates.

The cameras will be strategically positioned throughout the Island, significantly expanding surveillance, which will enable CCTV to function in a fully operational and efficient manner.

Digicel, the Ministry's partner in this endeavour, is responsible for supplying the cameras, installing them, and providing 24/7 maintenance. Digicel will also provide training for Bermuda Police Service users.

The CCTV system, once fully implemented, will deliver cutting-edge features designed to aid the Bermuda Police Service and will greatly assist the police in the investigation of crime.

The Minister recently visited the Hamilton Bus terminal along with Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons and Digicel’s CEO Liam Donnelly, to witness the installation of a camera near the Hamilton bus terminal.

Minister Weeks used the opportunity to personally thank Digicel employees and Roger Hart, a subcontractor and the owner of ACS Excavating, Trenching and General Trucking, for their work on the project.

Commissioner Simons stated: “The Bermuda Police Service welcomes the completion of this first phase of the new CCTV monitoring system and looks forward to full implementation.

“This new, much-improved system will no doubt prove invaluable to the Bermuda Police Service in its ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of all residents. It will be of particular help in the area of crime detection as the new upgraded features allow for better identification of individuals and vehicles.

“I wish to thank the Minister for his continued hard work in ensuring the Bermuda Police Service is better equipped for meeting the mandate of Making Bermuda Safer.”

Mr Donnelly added: "The Digicel Business team is excited to be bringing this leading-edge CCTV Technology to Bermuda.

“Digicel has extensive experience in providing CCTV solutions to governments in the Caribbean with our global CCTV partners.

“This system is equipped with high-resolution cameras, night vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), which will provide enhanced security and safety for Bermuda’s citizens and visitors alike.

“The CCTV system is also integrated with other security system capabilities such as facial recognition and licence plate recognition. This CCTV system will be deployed in key locations across the Island, including public places, Government and private buildings, and critical infrastructure.

“It will provide a significant boost to security and safety in Bermuda and will deter crime, help the Bermuda Police Service to apprehend criminals, and make public spaces safer for everyone.”

The second phase of the initiative will see camera installation in the east and west ends of the Island and is expected to roll out in November. The entire project is on schedule to be completed by the end of December.