South Wales Police have confirmed they will be deploying facial recognition technology in a bid to prevent trouble at the upcoming derby match between Swansea City and bitter rivals Cardiff City at the Liberty Stadium.
The technology, which has been used at football matches before, aims to automatically identify known troublemakers, with tensions set to run high in what is the first meeting between the two rivals in five years.
South Wales Police aren't making any further comment on the measures, but tweeted out the following on Wednesday: "Swansea City face Cardiff City at the Liberty Stadium this Sunday, and we'll be deploying our facial recognition technology at key areas ahead of the match.
"The technology helps identify those who have been issued with banning orders and may attempt to attend the game.
"Our watchlist, as always, is event-specific and is only being used to reduce the threat of or likelihood of disorder.
"Those on our watchlist have previously been convicted of offences at football matches and all have valid banning orders not to attend Sunday’s game."
The technology will be implemented alongside 'bubble-style' restrictions for travelling Cardiff fans.
Bluebirds supporters wishing to travel to the game on Sunday will have to do so by way of coaches organised by the club, although it's understood there will be multiple pick-up points to help cater for fans living outside the capital.
