The Metropolitan Police Service has unveiled a new technology that makes it easier to photograph and visualise bruising on victims of violence, particularly on darker skin tones.

Now being rolled out across London, Project Archway, as it is known, allows officers to better assess victims’ injuries, which is a landmark development in the fight against violence towards women and girls (VAWG). In 2024 alone, more than 123,000 VAWG-related crimes were reported to the Met.

Officers have faced challenges capturing visible evidence of bruising on darker skin or during early stages of injury, which can limit evidential strength at the charging stage. Project Archway allows this critical gap to close.

The handheld device uses a technique called cross-polarisation to dramatically enhance the visibility of injuries, particularly bruises that may not appear clearly to the naked eye.

Clearer images of evidence help investigators build stronger files, support CPS charging decisions and give courts the visual evidence needed to hold perpetrators accountable, meaning that the technology is a move to ensuring that victims of all backgrounds receive equal chances of obtaining justice.

During a pilot in South London, 45 per cent of its 33 uses resulted in charges, with several others under investigation.

Developed by the Met, this technology makes the Met the only force in the UK to develop and deploy this kind of frontline equipment to strengthen evidence, support victims from the first police contact, and help bring perpetrators to justice.

Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “We have made big strides in protecting women and girls from predatory men—and this new device is a bold symbol of that transformation.

“Compared to three years ago, our charge rate for offences for violence against women and girls offences has tripled, and we’re going after the most dangerous individuals through our V100 programme. Women in London are better protected, and this is reflected in the trust gap between men and women closing.

“These improvements are a credit to our people—to their empathy, determination, and courage as they take on these heartrending cases day after day.

“The Met is leading nationally on innovation that puts victims first. We are the only police service to develop this kind of frontline technology, and we’re already seeing how it strengthens evidence, builds trust, and ensures victimless feel seen and heard from the moment they report abuse.”