Crime tip-offs soar in Lancashire - police say it's proof residents are 'refusing to stay silent'
Anonymous crime reports in Lancashire have surged to their highest level on record - and police say it’s clear evidence that more residents than ever are stepping forward to help tackle offending.
New figures from Lancashire Constabulary show a 26.9 per cent rise in reports submitted via Crimestoppers compared with the same nine-month period last year.
It marks the highest number of reports ever recorded across a nine-month stretch in the county.
Between October and December alone, there were 649 more reports than during the same period in 2024, with police highlighting a notable increase in information linked to drug supply and drink driving.
Officers believe the rise reflects growing public confidence in reporting crime anonymously, as well as the impact of targeted operations including Op Warrior, which focuses on serious and organised crime, and Op Limit, aimed at tackling drink and drug driving.
Lancashire is also seeing increased engagement from younger residents through Fearless, Crimestoppers’ youth service, which allows under-25s to share information anonymously.
Police say the intelligence received is crucial in building cases, identifying offenders and safeguarding vulnerable people.
Detective Chief Superintendent Derry Crorken, Head of Crime at Lancashire Constabulary, said: “The Constabulary works hard to crack crime, but we can’t do it alone – our communities are our eyes and ears and we need their support to help identify offenders if we are to take positive action.
“Every single anonymous report helps us build a clearer picture of criminal activity, protect our communities, and bring offenders to justice. We are extremely grateful to every single member of the public who has come forward with information.”
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said the rise showed people were “refusing to let crime go unchecked”.
“These aren’t just statistics - they reflect real individuals who have taken the time to do the right thing,” he said.
“Whether it’s information about knife crime, domestic abuse or other serious offences, every single report helps protect our communities.”
Lancashire Police said they will continue working with Crimestoppers to tackle offences ranging from anti-social behaviour and shoplifting to modern slavery and organised crime.
Anyone with information about crime can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.