Chicago's extensive security CCTV system has been praised as one of the best in the US, it has been revealed.

Homeland Security secretary Janet Napolitano said that the system, which totals more than 10,000 cameras, is one of the US's most extensive and integrated, according to the Chicago Sun Times.

She went on to say that the only other city in the country that boasted a CCTV system of comparable quality was New York.

Chicago mayor Richard M Daley said that while the system was already extensive, it was not large enough and could well be expanded. He believes that the number of benefits is simply too great to ignore.

He told the news provider: "Expansion of cameras citywide is one of the highest priorities that will help us here in the city of Chicago.

"Cameras are the key. They are a deterrent. They solve crimes. It deals with terrorism. It deals with gangs, guns and drugs in our society."