Monday, November 11, 2024

Speaking up on crime and gangs

By Haydn Smith, CEO, Crime Stoppers

Crime, especially gang related, in our communities is a concerning reality for many New Zealanders.

The sad reality is that the dark side of Aotearoa gains traction in part because people are fearful of telling the truth. We like to believe that New Zealand is Godzone but Aotearoa is not exempt from crime. Although we would all like to call the authorities for help, the reality of getting involved is a bridge too far for many.

However, as New Zealanders, we may not always call the authorities, but its in our DNA to do the right thing and contribute to ensuring that our communities are safe.

Crime Stoppers is an anonymous reporting platform that allows Kiwis to speak up. We exist so the truth can be told. The bottom line for us is that the vulnerable must be able to speak up, anonymously if they wish, without fear of identification or victimisation.

Once contacted, Crime Stoppers supplies the information to the Police and authorities, not the informant’s details. In fact, we spend much of our time ensuring no individual can be identified or connected to the information that flows from our platform.

Crime Stoppers believes that all New Zealanders should feel safe in reporting on gangs and criminal behaviour in all its dark forms.

Phone 111 in an emergency, or 105 for the police.

Crime Stoppers can be contacted at 0800 555 111 or a report made online through your mobile, computer or tablet at www.crimestoppers-nz.org.

If you want to know how Crime Stoppers works then watch this short video:

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