Hazrat Shahjalal Airport under AI-powered surveillance: criminals can be identified with photo

A new AI-powered surveillance system at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport will enable law enforcement agencies to identify wanted criminals immediately upon their entry into the terminal, using only a photograph of the suspect.

The system is designed to detect fugitives attempting to flee the country, as well as criminals returning from abroad and smugglers trying to bring in illegal goods and gold. Authorities have deployed cutting-edge technology across the airport to enhance security and prevent criminal activity.

In addition to Shahjalal, the country's two other international airports are also being equipped with AI-powered CCTV cameras, facial recognition systems and highly sensitive gold detection technology to strengthen overall security.

If an individual commits a crime anywhere in the country and attempts to flee abroad using a false identity, law enforcement agencies can share their photo with airport security. The system will then instantly begin scanning for a match. High-tech AI cameras have been installed at all key points, including arrival and departure terminals, boarding bridges, immigration counters and the cargo village.

The cameras use facial recognition to compare passengers against a database of known offenders. When a potential match is found, an automatic alert is sent to security officials to take immediate action.

Beyond identifying wanted individuals, the AI-based surveillance system can also detect suspicious behaviour. If someone loiters in a restricted area for too long or if an unattended bag is left behind, the system can alert security personnel automatically.

To counter gold smuggling, authorities have introduced modern gold detection technology at Shahjalal Airport. The scanners can detect small amounts of metal concealed in clothing or on the body, allowing officials to identify suspicious items without causing unnecessary harassment to ordinary passengers.

Air Commodore Asif Iqbal, member (security) of the Civil Aviation Authority, said the agencies operating at the airport are procuring advanced technology with their own funds. He noted that the use of technical equipment has led to significant success in bringing criminals to justice over the past two to two-and-a-half years.

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport Executive Director Group Captain S M Ragib Samad said all agencies are conducting round-the-clock surveillance using high-tech equipment. He confirmed that the airport is being equipped with the necessary technology to meet international security standards.