Axis Communications set to demonstrate ‘smarter and safer world’ of video surveillance at IFSEC International 2014

At IFSEC International 2014, network video specialist Axis Communications will be demonstrating how the company is continuing to open new opportunities and deliver a smarter and safer world of video surveillance.

As well as showcasing the latest innovations in network video at the international security trade show, Axis Communications will be inviting attendees to learn first-hand how partnering with them can help businesses discover new markets and tap into new commercial opportunities.

Axis will be joined by five of its key partners, in turn offering visitors the chance to learn more about cloud hosting, edge-embedded analytics, efficient transmission and the use of network video to continually drive business improvement and performance as well as enhance safety and security.

Sharing the Axis stand (Stand E1000) will be leading video analytics companies Digital Barriers, IPS Intelligent Video Analytics and Wavestore, as well as communications and video specialist Fält Communications and video hosting system provider Observit.

Focus on cutting-edge technologies

The Axis stand will feature some of the company’s most cutting-edge technologies, including the latest innovations in ultra-HD 4K resolution and Axis Camera Station software for video monitoring and recording.

Other advances on show in the ‘image usability’ area will allow visitors to see first-hand Axis’ market-leading Lightfinder technology as well as its Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), thermal imaging and other technical innovations (among them nitrogen-pressurised stainless steel HDTV PTZ dome cameras).

Atul Rajput: regional director for Northern Europe at Axis Communications

In addition, this year Axis will also be dedicating an entire section of the stand to its hugely successful partner programmes, including the Channel Partner Programme and the Architecture and Engineering Programme, designed to support network architects engineers and consultants involved in the design and specification of IP-based security systems.

As part of its commitment to training and development, Axis Communications’ Academy will also have its own presence on the stand. After having trained over 40,000 people globally and with training in the Northern European region at record levels, the Axis Academy is proving to be an expert in its field and clearly demonstrates the desire for recognised certified training to enable surveillance professionals to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace.

Presence at the IFSEC Academy

Throughout the three-day show, members of Axis’ Northern European team will be delivering several seminars, these include:

Safe City Development: 17 June, 12.00 noon-12.30 pm
Speaker: Daren Lang, regional business development manager (northern Europe)
Location: Convergence Solutions Theatre

The Road to Smarter Traffic: 18 June, 12.00 noon–12.30 pm
Speaker: David Thomasson, transportation business development manager (northern Europe)
Location: Convergence Solutions Theatre

New technologies, new possibilities: smarter security for retail stores: 18 June, 4.00 pm-4.30 pm
Speaker: Scott Brothers, retail business development manager (northern Europe)
Location: Smart Buildings Theatre

Top Ten Trends: 19 June, 10.30 am-11.00 am
Speaker: Atul Rajput, regional director (northern Europe)
Location: Convergence Solutions Theatre

Benefits of network video

Atul Rajput, regional director for northern Europe at Axis Communications, said: “I passionately believe that, as an industry, we are guilty of underselling the benefits of network video. All-too-often, network video is viewed as a cost when in reality it can be a revenue generating opportunity.”

He continued: “We know that one of the benefits of network video is the endless opportunities for integration into complementary applications, but the question remains… Is that of real benefit to our customers and what opportunities does it present?”

Rajput went on to state: “We need to be bold and engage with all areas and departments as our technology touches every part of a business from logistics and operations right through to marketing and, of course, security. Network video shouldn’t be just a cost centre. It should be a key component in driving operational efficiencies throughout a business.”

He added: “For years, the conversation has only been about the transition from analogue to digital. That discussion has ended. Today’s successful companies are those that are proactively looking at ways in which network video can create new business opportunities. Companies that embrace this and strive to discover new and innovative solutions can look forward to a smarter and successful future.”

In conclusion, Rajput explained: “At IFSEC International 2014, we are determined to show people how we can help them and their organisations not only enhance their security, but also add real value to their business. We believe that our experience and that of our partner network means we are perfectly positioned to drive this change.”

*To discover more about Axis Communications’ presence at IFSEC International 2014 visit: http://www.axis.com/ifsec/index.htm

Nicolas Staley joins Linx International Group in senior consultant role

Former Metropolitan Police Service Chief Inspector Nicolas Staley MBA CSyP FCIPD has joined Linx International Group as senior consultant to develop business opportunities both in the UK and on the international stage.

The Linx International Group is a dynamic consultancy providing a comprehensive range of security, risk management and investigation services. The operation also comprises ARC Training International and Perpetuity Training, both of whom are very well established and known for providing world class, accredited security management training programmes.

Speaking about Staley’s appointment, David Gill MSc CSyP FSyI (CEO at the Linx International Group) commented: “Nick will be a valuable addition to our consultancy and training team. He brings with him skills that will enable the group to develop additional momentum in new and existing markets and further enhance what is an already significant performance.”

Staley’s 25-year career in the Metropolitan Police Service included developing expertise in counter-terrorism, protective security, command and control, major investigations and covert operations.

Nicolas Staley MBA CSyP FCIPD

He gained extensive experience in high threat security operations within the Government Security Zone, Critical National Infrastructure operations and as a principal police counter-terrorism security co-ordinator during the 2012 London Olympics.

Having studied extensively to build an academic portfolio (culminating in him becoming a Master of Business Administration), Staley is now continuing his studies as a PhD student at the University of Leicester’s Law School.

Driving standards in the security sector

Ken Livingstone MSc FSyI, Linx International Group’s training director, added: “Nick’s industry experience combined with his academic qualifications reinforces the ethos of the group and our belief and commitment to driving up standards in the security sector.”

Staley has launched himself into his new role and is currently developing existing and new relationships with international partners in Africa, the Middle East and South East Asia’s emerging markets.

Nicolas will also be chairing some conference sessions in the Risk and Security Management Theatre at IFSEC International, which runs from 17-19 June at London’s ExCeL.

Key maritime security stakeholders welcome ISO announcement

At a presentation ceremony held in London, key industry stakeholders have praised newly accredited certifying body RTI Ltd for its unique “master mariner” approach to the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) maritime security certification process.

RTI was congratulated for its success and support to Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSCs). Those PMSCs that have undertaken the ISO 28000 with ISO PAS 28007 process with RTI received their certificates.

As a certifying body, RTI Ltd provides assurance assessment and accredited certification for maritime security (ISO 28000 with ISO PAS 28007), assessing companies which provide privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP) on-board ships.

As part of RTI’s own certification efforts the company had been working with a number of leading international private maritime security providers. Having been audited as part of RTI’s pilot scheme process, these companies are now awarded ISO 28007 certification and have achieved success within the demands of this gold standard for the provision of protection on-board vessels.

The newly certified ISO/PAS 28007:2012 companies are Alphard Maritime, Bowline Defence, Control Risks and Securewest International. The certification success now affords them a competitive edge in the provision of armed guarding services on-board ships.

Clear benchmark for those involved

Captain Alok Kumar, director and founder of Alphard Maritime, commented: “We are confident that the new ISO standard will place the certified PMSCs in a higher class and will assist owners to choose the better PMSC.”

Captain Kumar’s views were echoed by John Howells, the UK director for Alphard Maritime who explained: “The ISO standards and the ISO/PAS 280007 certification gives a clear benchmark for all in the shipping industry to be able to select a fully audited and approved service provider with internationally recognised standards to be trusted to safely guard their people and assets.”

Key industry stakeholders have praised newly accredited certifying body RTI Ltd for its unique “master mariner” approach to the ISO maritime security certification process

A spokesperson for Bowline Defence added: “We are extremely grateful for the work that RTI carried out with us during the accreditation process. They were helpful, thoroughly professional in every respect and their auditors came with first-hand knowledge of seafaring and maritime risk. They knew exactly what they were talking about and taught us a great deal. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone else thinking of going down the ISO28007 path.”

Peter Cheney, director of maritime services at Control Risks, said: “We are delighted that the award of ISO 28000/PAS 28007 is recognition of our long-held commitment to quality, training and safety. It demonstrates to the shipping industry the professionalism of Control Risks and the other leading Private Maritime Security Companies.”

In noting the difficulties of managing demanding new standards, Cheney added: “While Control Risks has an established and reputable profile of 40 years standing in the risk and security industry, we participated in the pilot programme to demonstrate our commitment to a respected international maritime industry standard. We chose RTI due to its maritime expertise and use of experienced master mariner auditors in the accreditation process. We are pleased that the standard now provides a means to enable industry stakeholders to identify with confidence robust, credible and dependable Private Maritime Security Companies.”

Development and adoption of industry standards

Clare Williamson-Cary, CEO of Securewest International, is also pleased to have worked with RTI on the pilot.

“With over 25 years of service to our maritime clients, Securewest International has long been committed to the development and adoption of security industry standards and Codes of Practice. We were pleased to support RTI in the pilot scheme and, of course, to receive the certification. This ISO provides for independent assessment against clearly defined standards which can only help to drive up standards internationally across our industry.”

It’s not just maritime security companies affected by the ISO 28007 development. Indeed, a number of key organisations have taken a very keen interest in the standards of armed guards and the companies providing them.

As such, RTI was pleased to receive supporting comments from the Security Association for the Maritime Industry (SAMI), the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) and the Security in Complex Environments Group (SCEG).

Speaking about the ISO process, David Cotterell (director at the OCIMF) said: “Standardisation and the production of industry standards are a core OCIMF function. Operating to ISO standards is both a mark of quality and often a differentiator for customers seeking contractors to provide a high quality service. We were supportive when the IMO decided on the ISO route for the accreditation of private maritime security contractors, and we are very pleased to see ISO 28000 and ISO PAS 28007 certification being awarded.”

Andrew Farquhar, chairman of the SCEG, stated: “The SCEG is pleased to see that RTI has also been accredited by UKAS to certificate PMSCs to ISO 28000 and ISO PAS 28007.”

Farquhar also commented: “As the maritime security industry moves forward, it’s essential that risk and quality management systems are in place that ship operators and industry stakeholders can rely upon. With its experienced master mariner auditors and accreditation as a certification body, the RTI brings added value to this process.”

RTI maritime director Captain Steve Cameron thanked all parties for their assistance and support: “The commitment to excellence which has been demonstrated by the private maritime security companies we have worked with made a real difference to the process and helped streamline the way in which complex demands were managed. Each deserves praise, respect and recognition for the efforts they have made.”

Cameron also praised the industry bodies for their role and dedication to finding solutions which have propelled maritime security as a priority.

“We should also thank and recognise the pivotal role of organisations such as BIMCO, SAMI, the SCEG and OCIMF,” urged Cameron, “as they have tackled difficult problems to ensure that security solutions have been developed and standards implemented.”

The Security Institute Scottish Members’ Event (Glasgow, 4.6.2014)

Following on from what was a hugely successful gathering in 2012, The Security Institute is returning to Scotland for another special Members’ Event to be held at The Blythswood Square Hotel in central Glasgow on the afternoon of 4 June 2014.

With both the XX Commonwealth Games and The Ryder Cup tournament taking place in Scotland this year, the necessity for robust and effective security planning by businesses north of the border is firmly in the spotlight.

That being the case, The Security Institute has put together a fantastic line-up of speakers who’ll be airing their views at Glasgow’s Blythswood Square Hotel from 3.00 pm through until 5.00 pm (after which time there’ll be a drinks reception and networking opportunities for all attendees).

The Security Institute is looking forward to another successful gathering in Scotland

Timetable for the event

The timetable for the event – which is sponsored by local company SecuriGroup (www.securigroup.co.uk) – is as follows:

2.30 pm: Registration/Tea and Coffee
2.50 pm: Introductions (John Malcolm QPM, Chairman, SecuriGroup)
2.55 pm: Welcoming Address (Andrew Nicholls MSyI, Membership Director, The Security Institute)
3.00 pm: Developments at The Security Institute (Emma Shaw CSyP FSyl FCMI MBA, Chairman, The Security Institute)
3.20 pm: The Insider Threat (David BaMaung CSyP CTSA, Police Scotland)
3.40 pm: Managing Security Projects (Brian McNeill MSyI, Managing Director, Systechnica)
4.00 pm: Setting Up CSSC Scotland (Johanna Buchanan MSyI, Project Manager, CSSC)
4.20 pm: Hostage Taking (Andrew Brown FSyI, Associate Lecturer, Robert Gordon University)
4.40 pm: Opportunities (Bernard Higgins, Assistant Chief Constable, Police Scotland)
5.00 pm: Closing Statements

The Security Institute’s chairman Emma Shaw CSyP FSyl is speaking at the Glasgow gathering

How to book your place

The 2012 event in Glasgow saw over 40 members and guests attend, so why not come along and meet up with both new and familiar faces?

Bookings cost just £20 per person (or £30 for two attendees if an existing Institute member is accompanied by a potential new member).

*To book your place telephone: 08453 707717.

**Alternatively, to book online access The Security Institute’s Shop via this link: http://www.security-institute-shop.org/page57.htm

IHS Research Note: ‘The Access Control Industry of Tomorrow’ – How will role-based access and open standards influence market opportunity?

In the latest Research Note from IHS, Blake Kozak (senior analyst for security and building technologies) discusses the exciting changes afoot within the access control industry.

The access control market is beginning to propel itself into innovation and technological advancement through integration. Open standards, convergence of access control and video and partnerships with non-security related companies [and non-access control companies such video surveillance providers] are the focus of the industry.

It’s safe to say that access control providers, integrators and building IT managers are no longer hesitant to implement access control to its fullest capacity. Integrating access control with video allows for forensics and more seamless security.

While video recording at the door is not an entirely new concept, many providers are looking to develop software and user interfaces which unify the two solutions. Additionally, ease of use and convenience are helping to drive the industry.

The Access Control Industry of Tomorrow: how will role-based access and open standards influence market opportunity?

Access control does not always need to be used for only hardened security applications. Using social media and applications/hardware in conjunction with access control could help open the market to new opportunities since interacting with the access control devices is becoming increasingly popular.

NFC (Near Field Communication) and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) are also trending and will allow more options in the medium term for those end users who wish to replace physical credentials with mobile credentials.

Open standards/interoperability standards

Additionally, open standards and interoperability standards may also begin to change the face of the industry over the next 12-36 months. ONVIF Profile C and Physical-Logical Access Interoperability (PLAI) may look to lead this movement.

In addition to open standards, integration with hardware and software that’s neither security related nor BMS related could also change the industry.

Role-based access control is one example. Typically, access control rights today are assigned based on time schedules which often requires additional inputs from an administrator. However, there could be a trend towards using assigned roles to provide access to not only doors but to also logical access control.

The future focus could be on allowing logical domains to work with physical domains in order to increase efficiency and open doors for other possibilities in addition to automated privilege management.

Last, travel programs within organisations could be tied to access control systems which automate access to different buildings within an organisation based on a colleague booking travel. This would effectively eliminate the need for an administrator to grant each travelling colleague access rights to each building they are traveling to in a different city or country.

Innovation and implementation very much part of the mix

Overall, the access control industry is no longer standing still with innovation and implementation of technology firmly part of the mix. The access industry is now thoroughly entrenched in wireless, IP-enabled devices and integration beyond video surveillance. Many of the leading suppliers of access control are working to offer a wide range of product and offerings which include not only enterprise but also SMB.

One of the keys to success over the next few years will be to have an offering beyond traditional access control readers, panels, cards and software and embrace the new position of the industry which includes things such as remote management, mobile and fixed functionality credentials, wireless, reducing administrative burden and increased efficiency and integration with human capital management software.

The access control industry of tomorrow is knocking at the door.

BSIA members selected to secure Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games

Police Scotland has today announced details of the security suppliers selected to deliver a safe and secure Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer.

Following a robust and competitive tendering process examining key factors including capability and value for money, a total of 17 companies have now been contracted to deliver security and stewarding services at the event which commences next month after seven years of careful planning.

Seven of the companies selected to secure the Games are members of the British Security Industry Association:

Private contract security and stewarding only
SecuriGroup Services Ltd
Show and Event Security Ltd
The Protector Group

Private contract security only
Allander Security Ltd
Corps Security
Wilson James Ltd

Contract safety stewarding only
G4S Secure Solutions (UK) Ltd

These private security suppliers will work as part of what Glasgow 2014 terms an ‘integrated, multi-agency approach’ under the leadership of Police Scotland and operate alongside military personnel, the British Transport Police and officers from the Scottish Prison Service.

Several BSIA member companies will be providing security in Glasgow

Development of security and stewarding solutions

David Leather, Chief Operating Officer at Glasgow 2014, commented: “Glasgow 2014 has been working positively and collaboratively with Police Scotland and the private security industry to develop security and stewarding solutions which will play a key role in delivering a safe and secure Commonwealth Games in less than two months’ time.”

Leather continued: “We recognise and value the important role private security suppliers have to play. We are delighted to have created the opportunity for a wide range of security providers to contribute to delivering a safe and enjoyable Games experience for athletes, officials and spectators under the guidance of Police Scotland.”

In addition, Leather explained: “We are applying a level of scrutiny that is unprecedented in the provision of a contractor security and stewarding workforce. That means the progress of every contractor towards the successful delivery of their commitments is fully transparent and there is accountability every step of the way. Glasgow 2014, Games Partners, Skills Development Scotland and colleges across Scotland are also pleased to be creating training and job opportunities in the security industry for hundreds of people which is a positive outcome for individuals, for Scotland and for the Commonwealth.”

Finally, Leather commented: “Glasgow 2014 is the biggest multi-sport event Scotland has ever hosted. It will be a special time and we want people to enjoy their experience as much as possible. We are confident that the approach being taken regarding both security and safety stewarding will play a positive role in the delivery of a safe and secure Games about which we can all be proud.”

BSIA welcomes the news

James Kelly, CEO at the BSIA, has welcomed the announcement.

“The approach taken by the Glasgow 2014 Organising Committee and Police Scotland is an excellent example of a fully integrated and carefully considered approach to event security,” expressed Kelly, “which has taken into account all elements of safety and security and involved key stakeholders at each stage of the decision-making process.”

The BSIA’s leader went on to state: “The level of scrutiny applied to potential suppliers has resulted in a security and stewarding framework which is comprehensive, collaborative and fit for purpose. I’m confident that this approach will result in an enjoyable and secure event.”

BSIA CEO James Kelly

Kelly concluded: “We are delighted that so many BSIA member companies have been selected to contribute to the security of the XX Commonwealth Games. Many of our members have a long and successful track record in partnering with the police to deliver successful security operations at large-scale events, among them the Queen’s Jubilee, the Royal Wedding and the Olympic Torch Relay as well as sporting events such as Wimbledon and the Grand National. To add the Commonwealth Games to this list will be an additional accolade of which our industry can and will be very proud.”

BSIA membership includes several dedicated sections whose members have experience in securing events. These include Crowd Management, Security Guarding, Leisure Industry Security, Police and Public Services and Specialist Services.

*For more information about the BSIA and its members visit: http://www.bsia.co.uk

**Further detail around the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games can be found at: http://www.glasgow2014.com/

IHS Research Note: ‘Metropolitan Police Service trial of body-worn cameras highlights new trend’

In the latest Research Note from IHS, David Green (senior analyst in video surveillance and security services) provides information on the market for body-worn video surveillance cameras in law enforcement.

In early May 2014, London’s Metropolitan Police Service announced it would be spending almost £1 million on a trial of 500 body-worn video surveillance cameras for police officers in ten of London’s Boroughs.

The move comes after several high-profile cases in recent years calling into question the integrity and transparency of police officer’s actions (for example with the shooting of Mark Duggan, which later sparked the London Riots of 2011).

Fitting video surveillance camera systems on mobile law enforcement is not a new idea. In fact, over $200 million was spent on these systems worldwide during 2013. However, so far the focus of this spend has been on in-car video – typically two-camera systems that offer both forward-facing and rear seat occupant coverage.

In the majority of cases, the motivation for fitting these cameras came through the video’s usage in prosecution cases as evidence, although as the ‘sue culture’ has become more popular there has increasingly been a benefit in helping protect against legal claims for malpractice.

If this Metropolitan Police Service trial of body-worn cameras shows clear benefits for the police, public relationships and even the Government, then it’s unlikely that this will be the last trial scheme to be announced

Body-worn cameras are a much later addition to this industry segment. IHS estimates that sales reached over 5,000 units per year during 2013 for the first time.

In early adoptions, the body-worn cameras did not prove to be as successful as hoped. Issues arose with field of view, focal length and, above all else, simply whether or not the camera was pointing in the right direction when it mattered.

As a result, officers were finding that when they needed to search through video footage and prepare it for court, the video either did not show what it needed to or the quality was too poor to be admissible as evidence. The likely return, therefore, didn’t outweigh the financial cost to purchase the systems.

However, the technology has since improved and the newest cameras now offer a viable addition (but not replacement) to in-car video systems in providing law enforcement with total video surveillance solutions.

Solution to a problem

This is where trials like that planned by the Metropolitan Police Service are most interesting, though. It’s not necessarily that they are adopting body-worn cameras now that they’ve improved enough to be used as evidence. Rather, it’s more that they offer a solution to a different type of problem.

The motivation is not just about showing a tangible benefit (for example several thousand pounds a year in avoided legal claims) but that it can help rebuild the public’s trust in police officers and their conduct.

Body-worn cameras in this case are using video surveillance technology as a marketing tool rather than primarily being a security system.

It will therefore be interesting to see the progress of this trial in how it answers two key questions that could yet hold back growth in system sales.

First, will the public react in a positive way in that systems help improve public trust and reduce the frequency of legal claims against officers? Second, will the police officers themselves accept the technology?

Many arguments are made against the ‘Big Brother’ culture and there’s understandable resistance towards the idea that your every move at work could be recorded and scrutinised. However, if body-worn cameras can be shown to clearly reduce an officer’s risk in the field and improve public co-operation then maybe that resistance will reduce.

Post-recession, public services such as law enforcement don’t have a lot of funding to spend in any area. It follows that system cost will always be a concern, but if this Metropolitan Police Service trial shows clear benefits for the police, public relationships and even the Government then it’s unlikely that this will be the last trial scheme to be announced.

IFSEC International 2014 Preview: HDcctv Alliance provides Europe with first look at HDcctv 2.0 technologies and products

Dahua, Eyenix, Intersil and Telecom & Security to demonstrate the ‘Next Generation’ of HDcctv technologies and surveillance equipment.

Surveillance video standards organisation the HDcctv Alliance will provide the European security sector with its first look at the new generation of HDcctv 2.0 surveillance technologies and products at IFSEC International 2014.

The HDcctv 2.0 standards – which were ratified in February of this year – have been developed and agreed for equipment able to produce high-fidelity HD video without transmission delay and without the need for IP cameras or new Ethernet cabling within a secured premises – meaning a significant cost-saving in many surveillance systems.

At IFSEC International 2014, Alliance members – including Dahua, Eyenix, Intersil and Telecom & Security – will showcase new HDcctv 2.0-related technologies and equipment. This demonstration coincides with the recent publication of an IHS report predicting significant growth in the HDcctv market segment over the next few years.

Todd Rockoff of the HDcctv Alliance

Todd Rockoff, HDcctv Alliance executive director, said: “There are two primary variants of HDcctv 2.0: NR and AT. HDcctv 2.0 NR adds ‘plug and play’ remote control up-the-coax to the underlying HDcctv 1.0 format. HDcctv 2.0 AT, based on HDCVI technology, delivers HDTV signals over any legacy CCTV coaxial cabling along with the ‘plug and play’ remote control capability. Both variants offer significant advantages over alternative methods for transmitting HD surveillance video.”

Further detail on companies taking part

Companies exhibiting on the HDcctv Alliance stand at IFSEC International 2014 include:

• Dahua – A world-leading advanced video surveillance solution provider and the inventor of HDCVI technology. The company’s product portfolio includes a full system series of front-end, back-end and display equipment as well as software and intelligent traffic solutions. Dahua will demonstrate the new HCVR7808S ‘tribrid’ DVR: an 8-channel DVR that supports HDCVI, analogue or IP video inputs on each channel.

• Intersil – Intersil Corporation is a leader in the design and manufacture of high performance semiconductors for HDcctv Cameras and DVRs, in turn delivering a variety of high performance digital HD solutions. Intersil will demonstrate long-distance digital transmission capabilities.

• Eyenix – Eyenix manufactures Image Signal Processors for HDcctv surveillance cameras, providing security cameras with a total solution for capturing, analysing and transmitting HD video. Eyenix will demonstrate advanced ISP technology including long-distance digital transmission.

• Telecom & Security – T&S is an innovative Italian manufacturer of coaxial connectivity products for the security world, focused on simple, re-usable and effective termination solutions for coaxial cable-based installations. T&S will demonstrate unique, easy-to-use cable terminator technology.

Yin Jun, director of R&D at Dahua, said: “We’re very excited about HDcctv 2.0 and the flexibility it offers both end users and installers. HDcctv 2.0 AT in particular provides the means to upgrade any analogue system to HD quality video with ‘plug and play’ remote control without disturbing the legacy infrastructure.”

Jon Hwang, CEO of Eyenix, added: “Integrators and installers responsible for designing and specifying surveillance systems are now able to work with HDcctv as easily as they worked with analogue CCTV ten years ago. Certified HDcctv-compliant products from a variety of manufacturers will always interoperate without the need to test all pair-wise combinations. This means convenience, peace of mind and freedom of choice for installers and end users.”

Raman Sargis, product line director at Intersil, explained: “HDcctv 2.0 offers powerful technical options which will accelerate the migration to HD surveillance. Intersil is especially excited about further enabling ‘plug and play’ products by proposing our SMPTE-compliant VC-2 compression technology to the HDcctv standard roadmap for digitally transmitting HD video over longer distances and even higher-resolutions and frame rates.”

Intersil intends to license (under mutually agreeable terms) its VC-2 design Intellectual Property to other HDcctv Alliance members for integration in their semiconductor technology, thereby facilitating multi-vendor VC-2 compression interoperability and further accelerating proliferation of HDcctv-compliant products.

At IFSEC International 2014, the HDcctv Alliance will be exhibiting on Stand D265, where visitors are encouraged to meet Alliance members, see the latest HDcctv technology in operation and discover more about the benefits of HDcctv 2.0.

*To book a meeting at IFSEC International 2014, or find out more about HDcctv 2.0, e-mail: membership@highdefcctv.org

**IFSEC International 2014 takes place at ExCeL London from June 17-19. Visit: http://www.ifsec.co.uk for more information and to register as a visitor.

***The HDcctv Alliance is also taking part in the IFSEC Academy Conference Programme at IFSEC International. Attendance is free. Here are the details:

IFSEC International Academy 2014

Smart Buildings Theatre, Tuesday 17 June 2014

11.30 am-12.00 noon
‘The Future of HD Surveillance in Smart Buildings’
Todd Rockoff, Chairman and Executive Director, HDcctv Alliance
Giovanni Pugliese, CEO, Telecom & Security

Many major manufacturers have recognised end user demand for HD video, whatever the transport technology – hence their embracing of HD-SDI alongside IP cameras. Now, with the 2014 ratification of two advanced HDcctv standards, the options for providing end users with a High Definition surveillance system are greater than ever. What does this mean for CCTV system designers and specifiers? Are HDcctv cameras cost-effective in IP-based systems? What are the ideal situations in which to choose megapixel IP cameras instead of HDcctv cameras? What will the HD system of the future look like?

Borderpol News: Organised crime “worth an estimated 870 billion US dollars per annum”

The latest Borderpol International Workshop was hosted by the National University of Public Service in Hungary under the direction of Police Brigadier General Gabor Kovacs.

Over 40 representatives from Interpol, Europol, the OSCE, the Turkish National Police, the Police Force of Slovakia, the Dutch Royal Marachausees, Romania, Serbia, Germany, Hungary and others from central and eastern Europe attended the gathering.

The Keynote Speech by Peter Talas from the University of Defence Research in Hungary gave a stark overview of global organised crime figures from the UNODC. Organised crime is now worth an estimated 870 billion US dollars per annum and represents the 15th largest ‘economy’ in the world.

The most lucrative forms of crime are drug trafficking, counterfeiting, human trafficking, weapons trafficking, trafficking in endangered species and pornography.

It’s estimated that there are 3,600 international organised crime groups of which 70% have multi-national membership.

Markets according to crime areas

Illicit drugs: 320 billion dollars per annum
Counterfieting: 250 billion dollars per annum
Human trafficking: 32 billion dollars per annum
Smuggling of migrants: 7 billion dollars per annum

When it comes to terrorism, Lt Col Jozsef Nahalko (head of the International Relations Division, Counter-Terrorism Centre, Hungary) highlighted the changing nature of international terrorist organisations becoming more leaderless, with independent cells, looser connections (generalised guidance, Internet) resulting in more small-scale and ad hoc attacks using lower resources.

The main outcome of the Workshop was that the experiences shared of co-operation between agencies has provided real benefit, but it’s recognised there needs to be an ongoing programme of co-operation.

Also, information is available on organised criminal activities, gangs and people but isn’t being used or shared effectively.

Further discussions and inter-agency co-operation will take place at Borderpol’s next Workshop in Helsinki, Finland during September.

For further information visit: http://www.borderpol.org

The World Border Organisation, Borderpol is a 21st Century body dedicated to improving border security and standardising international procedures and processes.

Recognising the need for the establishment of a global home to over 1,000 border-related services, Borderpol was officially registered in March 2003 as a non-profit international association in Canada with its General Secretariat located in Ottawa.

In concert with the EU Secretariat in Budapest (opened in 2005) and the Asia Secretariat (established in India during 2011), Borderpol facilitates co-operation and consultations among like-minded border services and related agencies.

Fourteen arrests made during NCA-led day of action targeting prison contraband

A multi-agency operation targeting six prisons across Yorkshire and Kent has resulted in the arrest of ten visitors and four prisoners as well as the seizure of drugs and mobile phones.

The National Crime Agency (NCA)-led operation to disrupt the smuggling of contraband was conducted in partnership with Kent Police, South Yorkshire Police, Her Majesty’s Prison Service and the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Intelligence Unit.

In total, 68 officers were deployed at HMPs Lindholme, Hatfield and Moorland in South Yorkshire and 71 officers at HMPs Swaleside, Elmley and Standford Hill in Kent.

All visitors to the prisons on Thursday 22 May were searched for contraband and their vehicles swabbed to test for traces of drugs. This visitor-focused activity was then followed up by targeted searches of prison cells that same evening.

The latest NCA-led operation to disrupt the smuggling of contraband was conducted in partnership with Kent Police, South Yorkshire Police, Her Majesty’s Prison Service and the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Intelligence Unit

In Yorkshire, three people were arrested attempting to throw drugs over the walls into the prison, one arrested for attempting to smuggle a number of mobile phones and two arrested for other offences.

Four prisoners were arrested having been caught in possession of mobile phones, SIM cards, drugs or other prohibited items.

In Kent, three visitors were arrested on suspicion of attempting to supply drugs, one arrested for attempting to smuggle a mobile phone and six visitors were issued with fixed penalties for possession of drugs.

In all, more than 150 cars were swabbed for drugs resulting in 55 people being denied admission to visit prisoners.

Directing criminal activity

Caroline Young, the NCA’s deputy director of organised crime, commented: “We know that some of the serious and organised criminals we apprehend try to continue directing criminal activity from behind bars. Working together with partners, the NCA will relentlessly disrupt these individuals wherever they operate. That includes within the prison estate.”

Young added: “Today’s operation with South Yorkshire Police, Kent Police and HM Prison Service demonstrates a zero tolerance policy towards drugs and mobile phones in prison and sends a clear message to those in prison that they are never off our radar.”

In conclusion, Young stated: “We are now looking at the possibility of repeating this action elsewhere. Visitors to prisons need to remember that pison and NCA officers know where to look, and must ask themselves if it is really worth the risk.”

This latest operation supports the NCA’s commitment to the lifetime management of the highest risk serious and organised criminals. This involves tracking organised criminals into and beyond prison and working with the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) to actively manage the ongoing risk.

Detective Sergeant Nick Greenwood of Kent Police explained: “Officers from our prison intelligence unit continue to actively work to prevent and disrupt people smuggling contraband items into our prisons, and work closely alongside the Prison Service to ensure these establishments are as secure as possible.”

Greenwood also said: “Prisoners should not for one moment think that our agencies will turn a blind eye to illegal activity just because they are behind bars. We will work with every tool at our disposal to disrupt and deter prisoners and their associates from committing crimes.”

Rehabilitation of offenders

Paul Baker, the deputy director of custody for Yorkshire and Humberside Prisons, added: “Whenever drugs are entering prison establishments they undermine the good work which is taking place to rehabilitate offenders. Drugs cause violence and intimidation inside prison and obviously make it much harder for offenders to become drugfree.”

Baker asserted: “We believe that stopping drugs entering prisons, and therefore releasing people who are drug-free is an integral strand to cutting crime, reducing re-offending, making communities a safer place and in turn reducing the number of victims of crime. I welcome the opportunity to work with all law enforcement partners including the NCA and the police service to disrupt drug smuggling in prisons and hope there will be further opportunities to work together in the future.”