Pune Police Gets Thermal Imaging Drones for Enhanced Surveillance
Pune, 20th March 2025: The Pune Police has acquired five advanced thermal imaging drone cameras to strengthen surveillance and assist in tracking down suspects who attempt to evade arrest, particularly in remote or poorly lit areas.
Following a horrific gang rape incident at Bopdev Ghat in October 2024, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar approved the procurement of these drones to enhance law enforcement capabilities.
According to a senior police official, personnel are currently undergoing specialized training from experts to effectively operate the new equipment. Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Shailesh Balkawade is closely overseeing the training process, ensuring that officers are well-prepared to deploy the drones in emergencies.
“Criminals often take advantage of darkness and escape into forests or secluded areas, making it difficult for ground teams to locate them. With these thermal imaging drones, we can now detect individuals based on their heat signatures, even in complete darkness,” the officer explained. The real-time video feed from the drones will be transmitted directly to the police control room, allowing for swift decision-making.
Authorities believe these drones will be particularly useful in monitoring high-crime zones, especially in hilly and forested areas where incidents of robbery and theft are frequent. “These drones will give us an operational advantage in locations where traditional search methods are less effective,” the official added.
Beyond crime detection, the drones also feature a payload system that enables them to carry and operate public address systems. This functionality will allow law enforcement to issue instructions remotely during large gatherings, protests, or security operations.
Recently, Pune Police successfully used drone surveillance to track and apprehend Dattatray Gade, the accused in the Swargate rape case. The introduction of these high-tech drones is expected to significantly improve law enforcement’s ability to respond to criminal activity efficiently.
