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WAPOL first law enforcement agency to use low-earth orbit satellite technology

Katya MinnsBroome Advertiser
WAPOL is set to become first law enforcement agency in the world to integrate LEO satellite technology.
Camera IconWAPOL is set to become first law enforcement agency in the world to integrate LEO satellite technology. Credit: Getty Images

Low Earth orbit satellite technology is set to be integrated into the Western Australian Police Force’s communication network in a world-first move by a law enforcement agency.

WAPOL officers will soon be able to access high-speed internet anywhere in WA, giving regional police stations and vehicles metropolitan-equivalent internet speed and access.

The $8.5 million upgrade will allow officers to send or receive video in real-time and constant contact, livestream body-worn and vehicle dashboard camera footage to Perth-based State Operations Command Centre, as well as access automatic number plate recognition data and real-time emergency alerts.

In a 12-week trial across WA, officers from isolated stations in Balgo, Burringurrah, Kalumburu and Jigalong benefited from access to high-speed internet, including Water Police during high-profile operations such as Exmouth’s Total Solar Eclipse event.

Close to 130 regional stations and 550 WA Police vehicles will be able to access the satellite technology, as well as specialist teams such as the Regional Operations Group, Tactical Response Group and Regional Enforcement Unit.

Police minister Paul Papalia said the WA Police Force operated in one of the largest geographical police districts in the world and would soon have complete communications coverage.

“This high-tech upgrade will boost the ability of police to solve crimes and coordinate large-scale emergency responses like remote searches for missing people,” he said.

“For the first time, officers will have high-speed internet no matter where they are in the State, meaning regional WA Police will have the same level of connectivity as their metropolitan colleagues.

“Being able to livestream vehicle dashcam and body-worn camera vision will revolutionise the way our police operate in remote areas.

“It will improve situational awareness for officers on the frontline, helping them to make informed decisions during emergency situations.”

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