Live facial recognition rolled out in Cardiff policing operation

South Wales Police has deployed live facial recognition technology in Cardiff to help prevent and detect crime. The operation is designed to identify suspects, wanted individuals and high-risk missing persons.

The deployment forms part of the force’s broader strategy to integrate advanced technologies into policing across South Wales. Officers will operate in clearly marked vehicles and designated recognition zones during the initiative.

Facial Recognition Technology compares faces captured from live camera feeds or digital images against a database of stored images. The system analyses key facial features and converts them into a mathematical representation using NEC’s NeoFace M40 algorithm before generating potential matches for officer review.

South Wales Police uses three types of facial recognition tools. Live Facial Recognition scans faces in real time against a pre-set watchlist, while Retrospective Facial Recognition analyses still images after incidents. Operator-Initiated Facial Recognition allows officers to take a photo on a mobile device and compare it against a watchlist to confirm identity.

Members of the public are encouraged to approach officers to learn more about how the technology works. Where possible, demonstrations will be provided to explain its operation and purpose.

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