Rourkela: A unique tech-driven initiative named Project SHIELD (Smart Habitual Offender Intelligence and Early Law Enforcement Detection), has been launched by the police in Odisha’s Rourkela to transform crime prevention and public safety across the district.
The journey began with the introduction of E-Beat Patrolling, which brought a major transformation in routine policing. With the help of GPS monitoring, real-time tracking, digital reporting, and quick emergency response, Rourkela Police has significantly reduced response time. Citizens now feel an increased sense of police presence and safety.
With Project SHIELD, the police are taking a leap into predictive policing—analysing criminal history, surveillance data, and behavioural patterns to forecast potential crimes before they occur. Central to this initiative is the Habitual Offender (HO) Database, which digitally tracks repeat offenders, their modus operandi, jail records, and inter-state movements.
Using AI-powered tools such as Facial Recognition Systems (FRS) and gang analysis algorithms, officers can now generate an HO Score to assess reoffending risks and identify crime hotspots. This data-driven approach allows for optimal deployment of resources and proactive policing.
Moving beyond reactive policing, Rourkela Police adopted Predictive Policing. Crime patterns show that certain offenders, their associates, and repeated methods often lead to predictable outcomes.
Key objectives of the system include prevention over reaction, preparing in advance to prevent crimes rather than only responding afterward, optimal use of resources, deploying manpower and technology where HO scores and risk zones are highest.
“With Project SHIELD, our goal is to stay one step ahead of crime. By using data, technology, and predictive methods, Rourkela Police is committed to ensuring the safety and trust of our citizens,” a senior police official said.