RTP lieutenant-general Prawut Thavornsiri said biometric technology would check the eyes, fingerprints and facial features of people at the entry points. He explained that the technology could analyse 120 images per second and was totally accurate.
The lieutenant-general noted that the US and Europe used biometric scanning extensively and had used it to identify transnational criminals with outstanding arrest warrants as well as suspected terrorists. The only other Southeast Asian countries to utilise biometrics at immigration points are Malaysia and Singapore.
Lieutenant-general Thavornsiri said the estimated cost of installing scanners at every immigration checkpoint would be around THB1 billion. The immigration division of the RTP has been placed under the spotlight recently as some officers at land border crossings are alleged to have taken bribes to let illegal immigrants into Thailand.
Thai immigration to install biometric scanners at entry points
News in Asia
A proposal by the Royal Thai Police (RTP) may see biometric scanners installed at all entry and exit points to the country. The police say the technology would be better able to screen people entering Thailand and weed out any foreigners who are a risk to national security or criminals.