The Right Time to Dial 999 – Suspicious Incidents and Crimes in Progress

Greetings, residents of South Worcestershire,

I’d like to discuss something I’ve observed that has recently been on the rise: the use of social media to share suspicious activity

Now, don’t get me wrong – I genuinely appreciate the sense of community that platforms like Facebook provide, and how they enable residents to share information rapidly. These groups and platforms have indeed become vital in maintaining our sense of unity and safety. However, it’s essential to remember that while sharing on social media is good, notifying the police immediately about suspicious activities should always come first.

Our 24/7 patrol teams in South Worcestershire are constantly on the move, working tirelessly to respond promptly, to pursue offenders and to prevent potential crimes. But without the timely aid of the community, our work becomes even more challenging. I have occasionally come across posts where a crime like burglary is being discussed, yet the police weren’t notified when it happened and when suspects were still in the area. In some cases, the delay in reporting can lead to us only finding out about the crime hours later through social media channels – and that’s not how this should work.

I’d like to make this clear: it’s not about pointing fingers or blaming anyone. Instead, my message is this;

If you believe you’re witnessing a crime in progress – be it a house break-in, a car theft, or any suspicious activities – please do not hesitate to call 999 if you believe a crime is in progress. Your call could make a world of difference and ensure the safety of our community.

South Worcestershire is, and I hope will always be, a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. To maintain this, let’s remember that while social media is a powerful tool, it should not replace immediate action when a potential crime is unfolding.

Stay informed and stay safe. Encourage your friends, relatives and neighbours to join ‘Neighbourhood Matters’, follow our official police channels on social media, and always stay in touch with your local neighbourhood teams. Together, we can ensure the continued safety and well-being of South Worcestershire.

Stay safe, and thank you for your continued support.

Best wishes,

Inspector Dave Wise.