The Saxon state parliament has approved a reform of its police law with a narrow 60 to 53 vote, significantly expanding digital surveillance powers for investigators in the region. Supported by eleven members of the BSW alongside the ruling CDU and SPD minority coalition, the legislation was passed despite opposition from Green, Left, and AfD lawmakers. The measures allow police to use artificial intelligence at crime hotspots for automated video tracking, real-time facial recognition, and the identification of dangerous objects or behavioural patterns. Investigators are further empowered to deploy covert licence plate scanners in flowing traffic, biometrically match faces and voices with open internet data, and use state Trojans to monitor encrypted messaging platforms. The law, which has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights activists, additionally introduces new competencies for drone defence.

Background: Facial Recognition in Policing

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