Facial Recognition at Lowestoft's First Light Festival

Monday, 15 June 2026 18:00

Suffolk Police will use live facial recognition technology at this year's First Light Festival in Lowestoft as part of efforts to prevent crime and locate wanted suspects.

The technology will be deployed on Saturday 20th June, with Suffolk Police using equipment provided by Bedfordshire Police.

Officers say the system will be used to identify people wanted in connection with serious offences by comparing live camera images against a pre-determined police watchlist.

According to the force, anyone not on the watchlist will not be matched and their image will be automatically deleted within seconds.

The technology was used at the festival last year, resulting in three arrests. Police also reported that more than 200 people spoke with officers to learn more about how the system works.

Chief Inspector Andy Pursehouse said the technology helps officers locate offenders, support investigations and protect the public, while also allowing police resources to be used more efficiently.

He said officers would be available throughout the festival to explain how the technology operates and reassure people about privacy safeguards.

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said the technology had been well received by festival-goers previously and could play an important role in preventing crime and bringing offenders to justice.

Police say there will be a visible presence throughout the festival and across the seafront, with officers encouraging visitors to enjoy the event responsibly.

The force stressed that images of members of the public who are not on the watchlist will not be stored and will be immediately deleted by the system.

Festival-goers will be able to speak directly with officers on site to find out more about the technology and how it is being used.