Media release – Crime Stoppers Tasmania, 30 August 2022
Crime Stoppers asks Tasmanians to call it out
Protecting Tasmania’s airports and preventing illicit drugs from entering the state is vital. Crime Stoppers is encouraging Tasmanians to help this Crime Stoppers Week by reporting information about crime and those involved in crime.
Law enforcement and airport security protect us well, with trained and experienced people. Crime Stoppers Tasmania shares some tips on what we can all do if something doesn’t look quite right, and how to stay safe in the process.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania Chair, Mr David Daniels OAM says, “Every Tasmanian has the opportunity to support a safer Tasmania, by keeping an eye out for suspicious behaviour and letting Crime Stoppers and Tasmania Police know”.
“Criminals will continue to try and bring illicit drugs into our beautiful state and the vast majority of law-abiding citizens desperately don’t want them here”.
“It’s important that people know what suspicious behaviour might look like, and who to contact about it,” said Mr Daniels.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania and the Launceston Airport are encouraging the reporting of information from travellers and staff concerning drug crime or suspicious behaviour.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania CEO David Higgins says “Launceston Airport enjoys a strong relationship with Tasmania Police, other law enforcement agencies and security organisations. Crime Stoppers aims to increase information from the community to police, and prevent drugs coming into Tasmania.”
“We are not asking people to become directly involved, their safety is a priority. We are just asking for awareness, vigilance and then action. Contacting Crime Stoppers with as much information as you can is a great way to play your part without getting involved.”
“Suspicious behaviour includes those who fly in and out in one day for no apparent reason, or show strange patterns in their travel arrangements. It is always important to remember that any immediate suspicion should be reported to security and police on 131 444 or Triple Zero in an emergency”, Mr Higgins said.
“We can all work together to shine a light on crime and help keep our state safe from drug crime”, said Mr Higgins.
Tasmania Police Detective Acting Inspector Mathew Adams said that police work closely with Launceston Airport, Australia Post, the Spirit of Tasmania and other partners to ensure that Tasmania’s air, sea, and mail corridors are not exploited by those wanting to profit from drug distribution.
“Tasmania Police drug, firearm and explosive detection dogs are also used to screen passengers, baggage, cargo, vehicles and mail into the state,” Detective Acting Inspector Adams said.
“We actively investigate any tip-offs or intelligence and conduct our operations accordingly, and of course we monitor repeat offenders very closely. But we need the community’s help through the reporting of suspicious behaviour.”
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said that the airport is pleased to support Crime Stoppers Week and help raise awareness.
“We all have a role to play in protecting our state,” Mr O’Hare said.
“It may not always be obvious to travellers coming through the airport, but we always have our eyes open – and so do the police and state agencies. But extra eyes from the travelling public always helps, so don’t hesitate to speak up and point out suspicious behaviour,” he said.
If Tasmanians see or hear something that doesn’t seem right, we encourage them to speak up, but stay secret, by anonymously reporting what they know at crimestopperstas.com.au or by phoning 1800 333 000.
Shine a light on crime and drug dealers this Crime Stoppers Week. We just need your info, not your name! crimestopperstas.com.au or 1800 333 000.
