When someone goes missing, a suspect needs to be identified, or the identity of a deceased person is unknown, time and rapid access to information can make all the difference. To help the police respond more quickly in such cases, the Government has approved the establishment of a Facial Image Register.
The database will enable automated image comparisons, helping police identify individuals more quickly under law. It will also support international police cooperation by facilitating the exchange of information with law enforcement authorities in other countries.
Access to data will be strictly controlled, and all comparison results will need to be verified by qualified personnel to minimise the risk of misidentification and prevent the misuse of information. The new database will give the police a modern tool to support criminal investigations and the search for missing persons.
By combining more effective police work with safeguards for individual rights and personal data protection, the initiative will help strengthen public safety and enable the authorities to respond more effectively when people go missing or crimes are committed.
