Archives



Freight News, Logistics, Road


Catching crooks on camera could cut freight crime

[ September 5, 2024   //   ]

Truck CCTV provider Centrad says that artificial intelligence-equipped  cameras could help detect and prevent freight thefts.

With freight crime costing the UK £460 million last year, road freight thefts are on the rise according to the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS). With over 5,300 incidents reported last year. Industry experts believe the reality of this figure could be up to seven times higher. 

Managing director Geoff Cross, commented: “Freight theft is on the rise and unfortunately these crimes are becoming increasingly difficult to fight against. The RHA calling on the government for freight theft to be seen as a specific offence and to impose tougher sentencing is imperative to deterring criminals, however, in the interim, there are measures which hauliers can put in place to protect their cargo and reduce the risk of theft.  

“The emergence of AI has enabled camera systems to, in real-time, detect suspicious activities and unauthorised access attempts inside a trailer as well as automatically alert both drivers and operators to potential threats, track the movement of individuals near vehicles, and identify any unusual behaviour around an HGV. Essentially, through harnessing AI-powered CCTV cameras, hauliers can significantly enhance the security of their vehicles and cargo, offering a proactive approach to combating incidents of freight crime.”

The technology could also identify stowaways attempting to break into lorries.

Cross said: “While tighter controls being imposed by the UK government at French ports, on the Eurostar and Eurotunnel have resulted in a reduction in stowaway cases over the past decade, they still pose a significant risk to both drivers and hauliers.

“AI camera systems have facial recognition capabilities and can alert both drivers and transport operators in real-time if a stowaway is detected entering, or is inside a trailer, allowing them to contact the authorities as a break-in is happening.”

Tags: