As more of us go away on holiday and spend time at British seaside resorts and towns this summer, Border Force and the charity Crimestoppers are asking people to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The appeal comes as they announce a new, dedicated coastal crime reporting service, which has launched this month.
Both organisations are working together to help protect our vital coastal communities from harm. When it comes to stunning coastlines and bustling port and harbour towns, the UK is incredibly lucky to have so many great locations to enjoy and explore. However, if crime and the people behind it are left unchecked, everybody suffers. The new Coastal Crime Line is asking the public to Don’t ignore it – report it.
Run by Crimestoppers, which is independent of the police, suspicions can be passed on 100% anonymously at any time via freephone number 0800 011 3304 or online at http://Crimestoppers-uk.org
Information on any crime or suspicion of wrongdoing, happening on or around our coasts or borders, including smaller ports, docks and marinas, from thefts and smuggling to criminal damage, can be reported. Whether you’re a keen sailor, work in the maritime industry, or simply enjoy a coastal walk, if you see something suspicious, this coastal crime reporting service is here for you.
Some scenarios
Here are some scenarios where you might have suspicions:
Imagine arriving back into your spot at the marina after a day of sailing only to find someone hanging around one of the other boats. You know all the locals, so it seems strange to see someone new, and you could have sworn they were eyeing up the security camera.
Imagine walking home along the seafront one night after a dinner at the pub with friends. It’s already dark, so you’re surprised to see a figure flashing a light out on to the sea towards a boat in the distance.
Imagine you’re travelling through one of our main maritime ports like Harwich or Portsmouth, Dover or Holyhead, and you see people where they shouldn’t be, or taking an unusual interest in the port security, like the CCTV, entry/exit points and general security details.
We all have the power to protect our coastal communities from crimes that put them at risk.
Christina Brown, Director of Border Force National Operational HQ, said: “Border Force’s number one priority is to keep our borders safe and secure.
“This new dedicated coastal crime report service, in partnership with Crimestoppers, will now make it even easier for the general public and anyone working in maritime locations and businesses to report any suspicious behaviour 100% anonymously.”
Mark Hallas, Chief Executive at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Border Force with this new reporting service, which is making it easier than ever before for everyone to pass on any concerns and suspicions they may have 100% anonymously. We’re not interested in your personal details, just what you know.
“Our charity has kept its promise of anonymity for over three decades and exists to ensure that everyone is empowered to speak up and stop crime, safe in the knowledge that their identity is protected.”