A groundbreaking AI-powered system, called Knife Hunter, has been developed to help police identify knives and trace their origins more accurately and efficiently.
Key Highlights:
- Developed by Experts: Created by Surrey University’s Institute for People-Centred AI in partnership with the Metropolitan Police.
- Supports Operation Spectre: Trialed as part of Operation Spectre, the Met Police’s initiative to reduce knife crime.
How Knife Hunter AI Works:
- Fast Weapon Identification: Helps officers record and classify knives quickly when found, recovered, or seized.
- Advanced Image Analysis: Trained on 25,000+ images of 550 knife types, allowing it to detect unique weapon features from any angle and under various lighting conditions.
- Crime Pattern Reports: Generates detailed reports on knife crime patterns, aiding investigations and supporting better policymaking.
Impact on Police Operations:
- Faster Investigations: Reduces the time needed to process weapons and trace their origins.
- Improved Safety: Provides insights that help prevent knife crime and create safer streets.
Expert Insights:
- Prof. Miroslaw Bober, Project Lead, said:
- “This system can revolutionize how police across the country combat knife crime. It is a significant step towards safer communities.”
- Prof. Adrian Hilton, Institute Director, added:
- “Knife Hunter demonstrates how AI can transform public safety and improve lives.”
Rising Knife Crime in the UK:
- 50,000+ knife crime offences recorded in England and Wales (June 2023 – June 2024) — a 4% increase from the previous year.
Future Potential:
- Nationwide Rollout: Plans to expand Knife Hunter to other police forces and local authorities.
- Community Collaboration: Aims to empower local policing and strengthen public safety through AI innovation.
Final Thought:
Knife Hunter is a powerful step forward in the fight against knife crime. With advanced AI technology, police can respond faster, trace weapons accurately, and make streets safer for everyone.
