📋 Tender Overview
The Ministry of Justice and Public Security has today circulated for consultation proposals for amendments to the rules on hidden camera surveillance in the Criminal Procedure Act. The purpose is, among other things, to regulate the use of mobile cameras, such as cameras mounted on drones, in the work of the police and PST to prevent, prevent and investigate serious crime.
"The threat landscape in Norway has become more serious, complex and unpredictable. Russia's attack on Ukraine and the war in Gaza have created a new security policy situation here at home. In addition, criminal networks pose a significant threat to our fundamental values. It is crucial that we ensure that the police and PST have the necessary tools to ensure safety for all citizens and social groups across the country,' said Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.
The use of mobile cameras will be useful both in the prevention, prevention and investigation of serious crime. Drones can contribute to better situational awareness, higher quality and greater safety in the execution of missions, time savings and a more efficient use of police resources.
The use of covert methods in investigations may in various ways interfere with private life, which is protected under human rights. While it is important that the police are able to fulfil their social mission in a manner that inspires confidence, the state must remain within these fundamental obligations.
Briefly about the proposed legislative amendments
First, it is proposed to remove the conditions in Section 202a of the Criminal Procedure Act that the surveillance camera must be "fixed" and "remotely operated or automatically acting". The purpose is to regulate covert camera surveillance using mobile cameras as part of police investigations, such as cameras mounted on drones, handheld cameras and cameras mounted on manned units in motion, such as cars and helicopters.
Second, the Ministry proposes an amendment to the effect that the decisive factor for the conditions that apply to camera surveillance shall no longer be the location of the camera, but the location of the person to whom the information gathering is directed. The proposal is intended to ensure that the regulation is adapted to mobile cameras, which to a greater extent than fixed equipment will be able to follow people in private places, even if the camera is in a public place.
Thirdly, the Ministry proposes an extension of the scope of Section 202a of the Criminal Procedure Act so that the provision also includes hidden camera surveillance that is not "continuous or regularly repeated". The proposal entails that less intrusive forms of camera surveillance will be regulated by law, compared to current law, and is intended to ensure an orderly and predictable legal regulation of such camera use in investigations.
