KUWAIT CITY, May 6: Brigadier Faris Al-Qahtani, Director General of the General Department of Emergency Police, emphasized the critical role the Emergency Police play in maintaining public safety, securing properties, and supporting traffic operations through an extensive deployment of patrols and the use of advanced technologies.

In an exclusive interview with a local daily, Brigadier Al-Qahtani stated that the Emergency Police not only respond to emergencies but also assist the General Traffic Department by facilitating traffic flow, conducting traffic campaigns, and issuing violations when necessary. Each Emergency Police patrol is now equipped with three high-tech cameras – mounted at the front, rear, and inside the vehicle – to record audio and video during operations. This measure ensures transparency and protects the rights of both security personnel and civilians.

The General Directorate of Emergency Police oversees multiple departments tasked with receiving emergency reports and deploying patrols across Kuwait’s governorates. Its responsibilities include maintaining public security, monitoring highways, conducting field operations, and safeguarding VIPs. The Emergency Police are considered a central pillar in rapid security intervention and play a key role in supporting other law enforcement bodies.

While their primary role is emergency response, the Emergency Police are also involved in managing traffic, particularly during accidents or congestion. They intervene to secure accident scenes, remove damaged vehicles, and ensure smooth traffic flow, often coordinating with traffic police and ambulance services. Although not tasked with daily traffic monitoring, they have the authority to intervene when safety is compromised.

Patrol deployment follows a strategic plan based on population density, location vitality, and frequency of emergency reports. High-density areas, such as commercial centers and hospitals, receive greater patrol coverage. Monitoring and oversight are achieved through GPS systems and live surveillance by the operations center, which tracks patrol movements in real time and communicates with officers via encrypted systems.

Brigadier Al-Qahtani stressed the importance of accountability. If a patrol deviates from its designated sector without justification, an investigation is launched and disciplinary action taken if necessary. Patrol movements are documented, and all mission data are used to assess performance and improve deployment strategies.

A key strength of the Emergency Police is their rapid response time, with average arrival at the scene ranging between three to seven minutes. This efficiency is made possible by the smart distribution of patrols, real-time communication with the operations room, and the use of modern navigation systems.

Emergency personnel undergo continuous, advanced training, covering areas such as traffic accident management, conflict resolution, weapons handling, rapid intervention, and the use of surveillance and data systems. Training is conducted both internally and in collaboration with other departments.

The Emergency Police respond to a range of incidents, with common reports including traffic accidents, vehicle obstructions, public altercations, and disturbances in commercial or residential areas. A specific mechanism is in place for managing fights and thefts, ensuring rapid and effective intervention.

In response to rising concerns over drug abuse among youth, emergency units coordinate with the General Department for Drug Control when addicts are apprehended. They also play an active role in discouraging negative social behavior, such as loitering near girls' schools, a phenomenon that has significantly declined due to their targeted patrols during school hours.

All road checkpoints are coordinated with departments such as the General Traffic Department and Criminal Investigation to ensure efficient implementation without causing undue disruption. Each checkpoint is planned based on crime analysis and operates under strict oversight. These are used to track wanted individuals, detect suspicious vehicles, and enhance overall security.

The Emergency Police are also instrumental in campaigns targeting violations of residency and labor laws. Working closely with the Residence Affairs Investigations Department and Public Security, they secure inspection sites and verify the legal status of individuals, referring violators to the proper authorities.

Patrols are equipped with advanced systems linked to the Ministry of Interior's database, allowing officers to instantly verify identification, residency validity, and wanted status using civil ID numbers. This integration significantly enhances operational speed and accuracy in the field.

Emergency patrols are also authorized to issue traffic violations and participate in traffic control operations in coordination with the General Traffic Department, particularly during high-risk or high-volume situations.

In cases of celebratory gunfire, which poses a serious security risk, emergency patrols respond swiftly and decisively. These actions are treated with utmost seriousness due to their potential threat to public safety.

Brigadier Al-Qahtani praised the dedication and professionalism of emergency personnel, describing them as the first line of defense in both security and humanitarian emergencies. Their visible presence across key areas of the country offers reassurance to citizens and residents alike.

The General Department of Emergency Police continues to benefit from strong support from the Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef. Brigadier Al-Qahtani emphasized that this support, coupled with direct guidance and follow-up from leadership, has significantly enhanced operational readiness and technical capability, ultimately improving response times and bolstering national security.

He concluded by commending the high discipline and commitment of the department’s officers, stating that their performance reflects the effectiveness and professionalism of Kuwait’s emergency security apparatus.