Shropshire Police Chief Praises Public For Helping Tackle Crime

A Shropshire police chief today praised members of the public who supply tip-off information about criminal activity.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards, head of the county's CID, said: "I particularly want to thank people who phone in when they spot something which makes them suspect a crime is taking place.

"It's that type of instant information which enables us to react quickly and check-out if a crime is in progress."

DCI Edwards was speaking following the arrest in Shrewsbury early today of two people suspected of going equipped to steal.

"We received a call from a member of the public about two people acting suspiciously in the Sundorne area during the early hours.  We responded immediately and found a man and a woman in a secure compound on a building site.

"A 40-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman were arrested at around 5am and brought into custody at Shrewsbury police station for questioning. Several items of equipment were also seized from the man."

DCI Edwards: "It is this kind of support from the public which can make all the difference.  I would urge people to follow their instincts and if they see something which strikes them as odd or suspicious, then do not hesitate to call the police on the 101 non-emergency number.

"It gives us the opportunity to check out what is going on there and then - and if it is genuine activity, no harm is done.  People are usually reassured we are making a check."

He said there have been a series of successful arrests recently following tip-offs from the public, including theft of metal and cable from buildings, bogus traders, burglars and illegal drug activity.

"I want people to be our eyes and ears and my appeal is simply to call us and tell us without delay if you see something suspicious," DCI Edwards added.

Issued: Friday, 03 February 2012