Anonymous tip-off service Crime Line contributed to 3 000 arrests since it was started five years ago, its co-founder said on Tuesday.
“We need more tip-offs in the community, we need more arrests,” Yusuf Abramjee said at a function in Fourways, Joburg.
The system had contributed to the arrests of criminals wanted for crimes such as bombing ATMs, possessing illegal firearms and ammunition, and making illegal electricity connections. Escapee Bongani Moyo was apprehended as a result of an anonymous tip-off, he said.
At least 16 800 illegal connections and acts of meter-tampering had been thwarted in co-operation with Eskom's “Operation Khanyisa” initiative.
Eighty percent of the tip-offs were drug-related, Abramjee said.
“We need to all unite further and fight the scourge because this evil of drugs is eating right through our community.”
He appealed to national police commissioner Riah Phiyega to reintroduce specialised units to clamp down on drugs. She was expected address the function later.
Also present were Minister of Planning in the Presidency, Trevor Manual, and Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. – Sapa