Dial-in-a-Druggie has Phones Ringing

With the illicit drug industry continuing to affect the quality of life of Queensland residents, NHW members are encouraged to follow the recent lead of Toowoomba residents in reporting drug offences.

A joint initiative between Toowoomba District Police and Crime Stoppers, the Dial-in-a-Druggie campaign encouraged local residents to call Crime Stoppers and report any information regarding the production, manufacturing and distribution of illicit drugs in their area.

The campaign targeted the 145,000 residents in Toowoomba, Gatton, Oakey, Laidley, Drayton, Helidon, Pittsworth, Crows Nest and Cambooya.

Superintendent Tony Wright, Toowoomba District Officer said the campaign had been a success with many locals using Crime Stoppers to anonymously report suspicious activities in their neighbourhood or report alleged offenders to police.

During the campaign, Crime Stoppers experienced an increase of around 20% in calls received, subsequently increasing the information disseminated to police in the Toowoomba District.

“To date, the information provided has led to police arresting 24 people on 66 charges including trafficking and supplying dangerous drugs. This information is still being collated and investigations are continuing.

“The support received from the community and local businesses along with the widespread exposure from media outlets has allowed us to gain extensive information we would not usually be privy to.” Superintendent Wright said.

“Dial-in-a-Druggie truly highlighted the role Crime Stoppers can play in providing invaluable anonymous information to police.”

Three local television stations helped produce and broadcast an advertisement during the week, with all media outlets promoting the campaign. This was complemented by the production and display of posters at police stations, community notice boards and business outlets throughout the district.

The campaign appears to have had further flow-on effects, with the increase in information supplied by the public continuing after it had officially ended.

If you are aware of illicit drug activity you can report this anonymously to police by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00. (Information provided courtesy of the Police Bulletin.)