The National Police of Denmark (Rigspolitiet) has initiated its first concrete project involving the use of facial recognition technology for the investigation of serious crimes. The technology, provided by the Israeli company Briefcam, will allow the police to analyze large amounts of video footage and identify faces, provided that the video quality is adequate. The plan is to implement the system quickly if political approval is obtained. However, it remains unclear whether facial recognition will be used for purposes beyond victim identification and passport control.

The National Police’s plans come at a time when facial recognition is a hotly debated topic. This discussion has intensified particularly following a series of gang conflicts, during which young individuals from Sweden were recruited for violent acts in Denmark. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard has previously stated that the police should assess the use of this technology themselves.

The minister’s approach faces opposition, notably from District Judge Morten Uhrskov Christensen, who warned against the uncontrolled use of facial recognition back in March. He argued that the police should seek judicial permission before using such technology, similar to the requirements for wiretapping and other intrusive measures. This would ensure a legal evaluation of the necessity of such methods.