Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Monday that Ethiopia has launched its first unmanned smart police service, a technology-based initiative aimed at improving access to police services and strengthening crime prevention.

In a post on X, Abiy said the new service will enable citizens to access police services more quickly through digital channels while allowing police to respond more quickly.

He added that the initiative will help streamline crime prevention efforts and improve the overall effectiveness of law enforcement.

Abiy said the launch supports broader reform efforts under the Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy, which aims to enhance the capabilities and competitiveness of law enforcement institutions through technology.

The Ethiopian Federal Police also announced the launch on its official Facebook page, describing the service as the country’s first smart police station.

According to the statement, the system allows the public to access police services digitally without direct human contact, reducing delays and administrative barriers.

Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael said the smart police station digitalizes key police services and enables citizens to report crimes, traffic accidents and other incidents easily and without pressure.

He said the system is designed to improve transparency and reduce uncomfortable interactions between the public and police.

Demelash said the newly launched service is the first of its kind in Africa and the fourth globally.

He added that the smart police station is expected to significantly improve police performance while making services more accessible to the public.