How French police are harnessing social media to identify looters
French police are turning to social media to identify and arrest suspects linked to last weekend’s looting and unrest. Investigators are scrutinising videos posted online alongside footage from thousands of security cameras to track suspects and gather evidence. The crackdown comes as the government vows to hold those responsible for the violence and damage to shops accountable.
In Paris, the police are employing social media as a crucial tool to identify and apprehend looters following the unrest that ripped through the city over the weekend. According to an officer named Bruno, who sat in a special operations room filled with 10 screens, the police are cross-referencing information from social networks with their own investigations to determine if crimes captured on social media platforms match those they are currently tracking.
Bruno, who sat in a gamer-style chair, meticulously analyzed videos and footage using both street security cameras and those installed in the Paris region's transport system. He confidently identified a group of four youths who took part in the looting that marred Paris streets. The officer was among a dozen specialists working around the clock at the cramped Security Operational Coordination Centre to conduct digital investigations.
Since Monday, the team has been diligently analyzing footage and conducting police footwork to bring the looters to justice.
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