Secret Speed Cameras
(4.2) marks: 5Some Queensland Police speed cameras will be hidden when they are deployed on Queensland roads for the first time from Thursday.
The new undetectable cameras will be rolled out for the peak traffic period which coincides with the traditional Easter holiday break.
The role that these cameras will perform demands that the descriptions of the three unmarked vehicles containing the hidden cameras have been kept a secret, even from the Queensland Police Minister.
The only hint authorities are prepared to release today is that they could be any make or model, in contrast to the well-known fleet of 40 speed-camera vans and 4WDs.
The Queensland Police war on speed will be joined by two unmarked police motorcycles, with officers dressed as normal riders in an effort to catch unsuspecting speeders.
Police Minister Neil Roberts said that the chances of being caught unwittingly would be a "powerful motivator" for motorists to slow down.
He said "There is clear evidence which shows that increasing the chance and uncertainty of detection is a powerful motivator in changing people's driving habits, with covert speed cameras now on the roads, motorists will need to consider whether a vehicle parked on the side of the road is fitted with a speed camera."
Mr Roberts said even he hadn't been told what the vehicles looked liked. "I haven't even seen them and I don't want to, to be honest with you," he said.
The use of covert speed cameras is a major change of policy direction for the State Government as it desperately tries to reduce the road toll.
Hand-held speed guns have long been used by police and motorists warned about fixed speed cameras, and with the police speed camera vans and 4WD fleet clearly identifiable, the secrecy of these new vehicles will be paramount to the success of the campaign.
Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said the covert units will make up 30 per cent of mobile speed cameras.
The Commissioner said "The use of covert cameras is about saving lives and we make no apology for using whatever tool is available to prevent trauma on our roads."
Michael Palmer
Date: 29/03/2010
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