Japanese police officers are set to trial wearing body cameras to record public space questioning, the police agency announced. The cameras, mounted on the chest or side of the head, will be used to capture duties, provide evidence for traffic violations, and monitor crowd situations starting next fiscal year.
The National Police Agency plans to assess public reaction and impact on police duties before potentially implementing the system nationwide. Recent social media uploads showing police interactions have led to complaints, prompting the need for a more transparent recording system.
To ensure proper procedures are followed, officers may be required to wear armbands indicating the camera is active. Filming will be limited to police activities on the streets, similar to public space security cameras.
Several prefectural police departments will receive wearable cameras for the trial period, with video footage stored for one to three months. The police agency has allocated funds to support the trial in the upcoming fiscal year.
© KYODO