In a bid to modernize field-level policing, Ahmedabad Police is developing a new mobile application that will integrate with its long-established criminal tracking system, Pinac (Police Information and Criminal Analysis). The app aims to provide frontline officers with real-time access to criminal data, significantly enhancing routine patrolling, surprise checks, and law enforcement operations.
Introduced in 2012, Pinac has evolved into a vital investigative tool used across Gujarat. It enables police personnel to track criminals, analyze criminal networks, and access vehicle and background data. The upcoming app will serve as a mobile interface, allowing officers in the field to retrieve key information instantly—even in low-network areas, thanks to offline functionality.
Facial Recognition Trial at Rath Yatra 2025
During the Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 in Ahmedabad, police tested a new facial recognition module linked to the Pinac system. The feature scanned live CCTV footage along the procession route, matching faces against the criminal database. A beta version of the app was provided to 700 police personnel for field testing.
According to a media report, the system flagged around 100 individuals with prior criminal records. Though no arrests were made—as none had active cases—suspects were closely monitored.
“The facial recognition module worked effectively in real-time identification,” said a senior police officer involved in the trial. “We alerted ground staff, and suspects were kept under watch throughout the event.”
In-House Development and Funding Awaited
The mobile application is being developed in-house by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch and is designed to operate seamlessly both online and offline. It will allow field officers to access facial match data, vehicle information, and criminal histories instantly.
To expand the system’s capabilities, the police plan to broaden the database beyond Ahmedabad, incorporating criminals with inter-district and inter-state records.
While the software component has been successfully tested, the full-scale deployment of the application depends on procuring high-configuration hardware, estimated to cost around ₹15 lakh. The department is currently awaiting funding approval to move forward.