AI cameras installed to prevent contraband smuggling at Ludhiana jail

Ludhiana Central Jail is using AI cameras to prevent the smuggling of illicit items like mobile phones and tobacco. These cameras can scan and alert staff to items being thrown over the prison walls from nearby buildings. Recently, a worker installing these cameras, Irfan from Kashmir, was caught sneaking tobacco to an inmate named Shafeeq Khan. Both have been charged with smuggling under prison regulations. The deployment of AI cameras is part of a larger effort to enhance security at the jail, which has been a frequent target for smuggling. Items are often tossed over from multi-storey houses nearby. Jail officials proposed the camera installation in 2023, and about 100 will be installed along the prison's perimeter to monitor any contraband being thrown inside. Shivraj Singh Nandgarh, the jail superintendent, stated that the cameras will help detect objects and send alerts, allowing staff to intercept contraband before it reaches inmates. Security challenges continue, especially with illegal houses located very close to the prison walls. A Quick Response Team patrols the area to stop smuggling attempts. Mobile phones are banned in prisons to prevent inmates from communicating outside and smuggling contraband. In recent years, there have been numerous attempts to breach this ban, including two officials arrested for smuggling phones. Authorities are working on additional measures, like installing call-blocking jammers, as part of ongoing efforts to improve prison security.