The CCTV system in the Algarve city is already operational, using 36 cameras, which collect images “at the entrances to the municipality and in some arteries in Praia da Rocha”, as indicated by the municipality in a statement.

The cameras are located at the entrances to the city, such as “the old bridge, the hospital roundabout area, the crossing of Chão das Donas, Penina, and the entrance through Alvor”, according to information provided by the municipality. As for Praia da Rocha, most of the cameras are installed “on the pedestrian path along the cliff”, up to Avenida Tomás Cabreira, the well-known Rua dos Bares.

The purpose of installing the video surveillance system was to reduce crime, “especially on Avenida Tomás Cabreira”, giving the Public Security Police (PSP) access to images, which could help in an eventual criminal investigation.

Concerning the collection of images, only the PSP, “at a local level”, has access to the images captured by the surveillance systems, in addition, residents can rest assured, as the system integrates “masks configured in the cameras themselves” that prevent the capture of images, such as private dwellings, ensuring the privacy of residents.

The project is part of “Portimão’s Smart Cities strategy and enshrines the expansion of the Municipality’s own communications network” and costs “563,799.49 euros, including the installation and maintenance of the video surveillance system.”

The Portugal News tried to contact PSP, however, no response was available at the time of going to press.

Author

Deeply in love with music and with a guilty pleasure in criminal cases, Bruno G. Santos decided to study Journalism and Communication, hoping to combine both passions into writing. The journalist is also a passionate traveller who likes to write about other cultures and discover the various hidden gems from Portugal and the world. Press card: 8463. 

Bruno G. Santos