Police in Scotland’s capital say body-worn video cameras will be a “game changer” in tackling potential Bonfire night disorder this year.
Officers in Edinburgh and the Lothians have been equipped with devices for the first time around Bonfire night as part of the force’s national roll out.
In previous years, police have faced a barrage of fireworks, petrol bombs and other missiles in parts of the capital, resulting in dozens of officers being injured.
Body-worn video has been credited with helping de-escalate incidents, improve transparency and public trust in policing, reduce complaints and support officer safety.
Asked about the potential impact of the technology on Bonfire night flashpoints, Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors said: “I do think it’s going to be a game changer. Officers will have body-worn video not just at the time when it starts to go dark, but they’ll be patrolling the streets, they will be out engaging with people.
“There are two elements to it. One is the deterrent factor — if people know that they’re going to be caught on camera, they will think about their behaviour — but also it will aid investigation.
“If there is criminality, then we’ve got audio and we’ve got visual footage. We will be able to follow up, arrest those offenders and then be able to put the video into the criminal justice system.
“The body-worn video system works with our digital evidence system, so it can be transferred straight to COPFS.
“I think it sends a very clear message to anyone considering getting involved in criminality. You will be caught on camera.”
Police Scotland is catching up with forces elsewhere in the UK, where body-worn cameras have been used for over a decade.
The Chief Constable Joanna Farrell made the roll out of the devices “a key priority” when she took over the role in 2023.
Last year Police Scotland agreed a £13.3 million contract for 10,500 body-worn cameras, provided by technology giant Motorola.
The first batch of Home Office approved Motorola Solutions VB400 cameras was introduced in Tayside, with Edinburgh and Lothian and Borders divisions the latest to see officers equipped with the devices. The roll out will be extended into the west of Scotland early next year.
