Police highlight many ways community can help curb crime

The message comes after numerous calls on Facebook to begin a Neighbourhood Watch program to reduce the amount of crime in the Narromine Shire. 

Narromine Police Sergeant Michael Smith said Neighbourhood Watch is a useful community based, crime prevention program, but only when conducted correctly.  

"For a Neighbourhood watch to be effective, it needs to be well run and have a clear focus on crime reduction," Sergeant Smith said.

"I am more than happy to meet with those proposing to start a group in the Narromine area, to see if it is a viable option."

Sergeant Smith said local police rely heavily on information and assistance from members of the community during investigations. 

"We can't be everywhere all the time and therefore greatly appreciate community members acting as our 'eyes and ears' when we are not around," he said. 

"Even the smallest piece of information may be of great significance to police. It may be the final piece of evidence required to apply for a search warrant, or make an arrest."

While Neighbourhood Watch is one platform to curb crime, Sergeant Smith is reminding residents that there are a number of other ways the community can assist police by contacting the station directly or through Crimestoppers.

"It is important to remember that regardless of whether or not there is a local Neighbourhood watch group established, members of the community can always forward information to police," he said. 

Social media has also become an important communication tool between the community and police. As a result NSW Police have established an Eyewatch Facebook page for every Police Area Command in the state. 

Police use Eyewatch to offer crime prevention and safety tips, seek community assistance to locate missing or wanted people, and to let the communities know of crimes, incidents and emergencies. 

Sergeant Smith said people in Narromine can provide and follow information via the Orana Mid-Western Police District Eyewatch page. 

"I ask that people don't provide information via the regular NSW Police Force social media pages or make comments on posts that could jeopardise any police investigation," Sergeant Smith said. 

"Information can be provided anonymously, with all information being evaluated and forwarded to investigating officers."

Information can be provided by calling the Narromine Police station directly on 6889 1444, through Crimestoppers by either phoning 1800 333 000 or via their online portal at www.crimestoppers.com.au .