Police launch new text line to fight crime on public transport
In an Australian first, Victoria Police are deploying a text message service that allows commuters to report crime on public transport.
Commuters can text STOPIT to 0499 455 455.
They then fill out a form detailing unwanted sexual behaviour or other kinds of anti-social behaviour including obscene and racist language, drug and alcohol use, or graffiti on public transport.
Images can also be sent if it’s safe to take a photo.
The information provided will be examined by a dedicated triage team of transit police before being passed on to detectives, who will identify and hold perpetrators to account.
There’s no live monitoring though, so if it’s an emergency, passengers should still call Triple-0.
The service is now available on Metro and V/Line trains and will be rolled out to trams and buses late next month.
A similar service has operated in the UK for several years.
Press PLAY below for more details from police