A importância das câmeras de videomonitoramento na redução de homicídios dolosos na Ilha Upaon Açu - MA

Abstract

In recent years, violence has become a serious public safety problem throughout Brazil, especially in large cities. In this context, São Luís, Maranhão, which faced high rates of intentional homicides, began adopting technological strategies to mitigate crime, including a video surveillance system installed in 2012. Therefore, this study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of this system in reducing homicides in the capital of Maranhão, with an emphasis on the relationship between the spatial distribution of crime and the effectiveness of surveillance cameras. To this end, a descriptive and analytical methodology was used, based on the collection of secondary data from the Secretariat of Public Security (SSP-MA) for the period 2012 to 2024. The data were presented using maps created using QGIS software and organized using Microsoft Excel. Bibliographic sources, such as academic articles, books, and institutional documents on public security and technology, were also consulted. The results demonstrate a downward trend in intentional homicides in the monitored neighborhoods, particularly in areas such as Jaracaty, Divinéia, São Francisco, and João Paulo. Conversely, neighborhoods with less or no camera coverage showed less favorable variations, as is the case with Conjunto São Raimundo. While a direct causal relationship cannot be established, the data suggest that the strategic presence of cameras can help contain violence. The study also reinforces the potential of geoprocessing as a complementary tool in formulating more effective public security policies.