Dubai's 'robocops' get ready to fight crimes

Are you the kind of person who thinks that machines are better than humans in every aspect? Do you think that important wings of the government such as law enforcement involve more artificial intelligence for a smoother and corruption-free operation? If yes, then you will be happy to know that Dubai has taken a step forward by employing a robot police officer.

By "very soon", we mean that you will be able to see robot-only police stations by 2030. The department aims to have 25 percent of its police force composed of robot officers by the year 2030. "We are looking to make everything smart in Dubai Police. By 2030, we will have the first smart police station which won't require human employees," Brigadier Khalid Nasserl Al Razouqi, the General Director of Dubai Police's Smart Services Department, told Gulf News.

Developed by the Spanish company PAL Robotics, the specialised REEM robot stands 5.6-inches high and looks like Hollywood movie prop wearing white plastic armour, riding in on its wheels. The robot has a touchscreen interface through which people could report crimes, submit paperwork, and pay fines for traffic violations. While the prototype was unveiled at GITEX last year, the robot cop is already drawing attention and gaining public acceptance.

The most interesting thing to see will be its acceptance amongst the public. While it can speed up certain processes like fine collection and helping citizens, its ability to address crimes and use weapons in times of need will be highly doubtful. We will have to watch out for any development in this regard.