Rewards of up to £1,000 on offer to beat drug criminals

REWARDS of up to £1,000 are being offered to people who can help take down drug gangs in Derbyshire.

Charity Crimestoppers is offering incentives of up to £1,000 to anyone who can give them information on drug crimes in Shirebrook, as part of a new campaign.

Anyone who can help is being encouraged to speak up “100% anonymously” by passing on what they know, using the charity’s website or phone number.

Lydia Patsalides, Crimestoppers regional manager, said: “We value safe communities which is why we are really keen to hear from people who are aware of those doing drug crime in Shirebrook.

“If you have information about crime, such as who a drug dealer is or you know someone who is exploiting young people, you can give that information to us – 100% anonymously, using one of our secure online forms or by phoning our 24/7 UK freephone number.

“Our charity believes passionately about giving people, especially those who feel unable to speak directly to police because of fear of reprisals or cultural reasons, a voice to speak up about what they know.

“In more than 32 years since we began, we have always kept our promise of anonymity to the millions of people who have contacted us.

“Young people can also report crime via our Fearless.org site. We cannot trace calls or get IP addresses. Not even we will know your identity when you contact us to pass on information.”

The eight-week campaign includes using social media to promote the service and will also be highlighted signs to look out for.

A Crimestoppers spokesperson said: “Drug gangs are grooming vulnerable people every day. These individuals, who may feel trapped, are often on the end of a phone 24-hours-a-day, to sell and deliver drugs. They could also be asked to store weapons, including firearms. Homes of vulnerable people can also be taken over, so that gangs can sell or manufacture drugs, which is called ‘cuckooing’.”

Anyone with information can use the charity’s anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111. There is no need to speak directly to the police.