Police activate licence plate scanners for crime detection on Highway 6

Stationary automated licence plate readers began operating at the intersection of Highway 6 and Beedahban Miikun in Whitefish River First Nation on May 30, 2025. (UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service/Facebook)

Stationary automated licence plate readers are now being used at the intersection of Highway 6 and Beedahban Miikun in Whitefish River First Nation.

The system scans licence plates entering and leaving the Manitoulin District, capturing infrared and colour images at a rate of up to two plates per second.

Officers with the United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin Anishnaabe Police Service can flag plates linked to serious investigations, including missing persons, homicides, amber alerts, human trafficking, drug trafficking and organized crime.

“It is important to clarify that this system is not to be primarily used to detect speeding violations or other offences under the Highway Traffic Act,” police said in a news release.

Unflagged plates are automatically purged after seven days to comply with privacy laws.

The initiative, which began May 30, was developed in consultation with Ontario’s privacy commissioner and aims to enhance public safety and assist law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Signs have been installed to notify the public of the presence of the licence plate scanners.

In the release, police urged community members to report crimes anonymously through Crime Stoppers or directly to local police at 705-377-7135, saying the most effective way to protect the region is to share information.

Authorities said the damage caused by drug trafficking is “real and lasting.”

“Drug trafficking brings with it serious consequences, including home invasions, violent assaults, homicides, addiction, homelessness and overdose deaths,” police said.

“Together, we can make a difference,” added UCCM Chief James Killeen.