Officers with Surrey Police have been trialling a new surveillance system in a move to cut crime and anti-social behaviour as pressures continue to mount on budgets.

Jabbakam – a so called web-based Community Monitored (CMTV) system – is marketed as being as simple to install and easy to use as Facebook. And its makers claim it is both user-friendly and less expensive than traditional CCTV.

The kit has been put to the test in the borough of Surrey Heath, where it has been pressed into action to keep watch over trouble spot in the town of Camberley.

Police had previously used a mobile 3G CCTV arrangement with cameras that stored footage. Downloading and monitoring pictures could take several hours.

In contrast, Jabbakam has provided cameras that can be controlled from anywhere in the world via a PC or mobile device to provide real-time images. The system also provides alerts via email or text when if there is unexpected activity.

Surrey Heath Crime Reduction Advisor John Eldridge, who has been leading the project in conjunction with Jabbakam, said that the kit had proved impressive.

He added: "Instead of taking hours to download footage and monitor it, which was expensive and time consuming, we can simply log onto the Jabbakam website and gain instant access to the footage and evidence we need."

"Results have been impressive, with footage being used to aid investigations and resolve crimes. This opens up some exciting possibilities."

Surrey Police currently has a camera deployed with two more already on order.

Jabbakam founder James Wickes was delighted with the success of the kit.

He added: "Surrey Police's use of technology is an indication of how far the police have come in their use of new media – they are ahead of the curve."

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