Despite some early misgiving from civil liberty groups, CCTV security cameras have become an essential frontline weapon in the fight against crime.The introduction of surveillance cameras in Wollongong's CBD almost two years ago brought the number of eyes on potential trouble spots across the city to more than 100, and such comprehensive coverage is reaping many rewards.Our surveillance camera networks have been so successful in reducing crimes such as assaults and shop theft, they have become the envy of other local government areas.In the past three years, they have tracked scores of suspects, resulting in 1450 arrests, saved $500,000 in credit card fraud and helped recover more than $125,000 in stolen goods.The high resolution cameras are also making it easier for police to secure convictions and early pleas of guilt when offenders are brought before the courts.That was amply highlighted recently in two high profile court cases, in which the offenders were identified and convicted of very serious assaults, although their victims were unwilling to lodge formal complaints.While nothing can replace real police officers on our streets, the statistics of the past three years should sweep away any lingering doubt surrounding the effectiveness of these silent sentinels.