Anonymous crime tip-off service Crime Line says it is approaching the 2 000 mark for arrests, ahead of its fifth anniversary in June.
To date, more than 1 800 suspects have been arrested due to tip-offs sent by the public to Crime Line via its 32211 SMS service, and its Web site.
“Since our launch in 2007, Crime Line has made incredible strides in giving voice to the millions of South Africans out there, by giving them a platform to blow the whistle on crime, anonymously. Five years is a landmark for us and we will continue to grow the service with exciting developments planned for the future,” says head of Crime Line Yusuf Abramjee.
The service is endorsed by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and has, to date, also been responsible for R40 million in seizures.
“We are proud to be involved in a public-private partnership that encourages whistle-blowing and allows for communities to become our eyes and ears in the fight against crime,” says SAPS brigadier Lindela Mashigo.
Reclaiming streets
The service says it was at the forefront of efforts to bring some of SA's most wanted criminals to book last year.
In May, it partnered with the SAPS in the hunt for a gang of bank robbers responsible for scores of robberies in Gauteng. To date, eight gang members have been arrested, while three are dead. The Hawks are still searching for seven suspects.
“South African citizens have a choice. We can reclaim our streets and ensure safer communities for our children. Whatever the crime, be it drug dealing, cable theft, murder, robbery, theft... If you have information that can assist the police in arresting the suspects, report it. Crime Line is anonymous, so no one will ever know who you are,” says Abramjee.
The tip-off service also appealed to the public to support Operation Khanyisa, an Eskom-led initiative to curb electricity and cable theft. The initiative was launched in 2010. “Scores of illegal connections have since been disconnected and numerous arrests have been made.”
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