Dozens of surveillance cameras are installed within the Santo Domingo campus of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD). They are part of the National System of Emergency Attention and Security 911.
Engineer Jimmy Rosario, from the UASD’s Department of Technology, told Listín Diario that the previous administration requested these cameras after the murder of Professor Yuniol Ramírez, who was abducted inside the campus.
“911 installed some 54 cameras throughout the university campus, but the problem is that the University does not have immediate access to the information and systems of these security cameras, explained Rosario. He said to view the recordings, the university needs to comply with legal protocols.
Rosario made the remarks after the installation of Chinese surveillance systems was objected by high-ranking US government officials. Rosario then said the negotiations with China for the installation of a more comprehensive security system is so that the UASD can monitor the campus itself. US senator Marco Rubio recently tweeted in protest of the Chinese deal, while media reports indicated that the matter was addressed during a recent meeting of US Southern Command chief Craig Faller with President Medina at the Presidential Palace. The US has been a significant donor of equipment for the 911 Emergency System.
The Embassy of China issued a statement standing by the quality of Chinese surveillance systems. “China’s public safety and monitoring products are sold expeditiously all over the world, they have undergone the most rigorous testing and their level of reliability is widely recognized. No matter that certain people in the United States use security issues or values to conceal themselves, they cannot hide their real intentions of obtaining economic and commercial benefits by demonizing China,” says the China Embassy.
The National Emergency Service (911) confirmed that the 911 service’s closed-circuit television system was initially created with the support of the United States, Taiwan and Orange telecom but they are now sourcing equipment from other countries. “In fact, we are now expanding the system of cameras with equipment acquired from various providers, acquired by means of a totally transparent tender,” says 911 Emergency System press release. The 911 System confirms it has received “a generous donation of equipment from the People’s Republic of China.”
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Listin Diario
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18 November 2019