The Role of Technology in Criminal Investigation in Nigeria: A Case Study of CCTV Cameras in Banks at Imo State

Security of lives and properties have remained the fundamental objective of every responsible government since the emergence of every nation state in the world; it is not surprising that there is need to strategize on how to ensure effective security of banks in Nigeria, particularly in Imo state and the southeast region as a whole. There is need for adequate utilization of modern technologies such as Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras as deterrence for crime. This is because of the fact that crime rate is high and criminality, have assumed sophistication in Nigeria. This study has become necessary due to the need for efficient and effective system of crime investigation in Nigeria, especially the Southeast where there is high propensity of violent crimes. Hence, this research: “the role of technology in criminal investigation in Nigeria: a case study of CCTV cameras in banks in Imo state. The researcher having reviewed related literature; will adopt quantitative research methodology and Cross-sectional Survey research design in which questionnaires and structured interview instruments will be used to collect primary data from the targeted population. Krejcie and Morgan, (1970) sample size determination table and formula for population above (100,000) is used to determine the target population among the staff and customers of the selected banks [First Bank (70,000,000 divided by 37= 1,891,000), Zenith Bank (33,000,000 divided by 37=891,891), UBA Bank (45,000,000 divided by 37= 1,216,216) and Fidelity Bank (8,300,000 divide by37=224,324); (Adesola, 2021; Uche, 2023).; UBA Group, 2024; Fidelity, 2024). The sample size for each bank gotten from the above mentioned formula is 55 and the total sample size is 55 x 4=220. Data was collected, presented and analyzed using SPSS 21st version of simple frequency and percentage tables in order to ascertain the research objectives and questions. Findings were made that there is growing awareness of the use of CCTV cameras in the banks and the CCTV cameras aid investigation of crimes committed at the banks in Imo state, Nigeria.