"Report Crime Anonymously" Campaign Kicks Off at Business Parks
Don't give crime a chance. This is the message from Report Crime Anonymously and the municipality of Voorschoten in a new campaign against misconduct in industrial parks. The campaign launches today in all 27 municipalities in the Hague region.
Vacant buildings or struggling businesses are frequently exploited by criminals for the production or storage of illegal substances, such as drugs or weapons. This has serious consequences for the safety of employees and business owners. All 27 municipalities in the Hague region are therefore participating in the campaign to raise awareness among employees, building owners, and visitors to industrial parks about suspicious signs. They are also encouraged to report these signs to “Report Crime Anonymously.” The campaign is part of the national government’s “Safe Business Action Program.”
Avoid trouble
Mayor Nadine Stemerdink: “Unusual activity at odd hours, regular visits from unknown people or cars, secretly carrying bags or items, excessive security camera coverage, a chemical odor, or the smell of marijuana. These are all suspicious signs that we need to watch out for together. Especially if you’re a business owner. Because as a business owner or employee, you often notice signs that others don’t. If you see something like this, call the police or contact Report Crime Anonymously so they can investigate whether something is actually going on. By doing so, you may prevent a lot of trouble for yourself or your employees.”
Organized Crime
Due to their logistical location or, conversely, their remote setting, industrial parks are attractive hideouts for criminals. Buildings are used for the production of drugs or to store weapons, illegal fireworks, or explosive substances. In a multi-tenant industrial building, this can lead to life-threatening situations. In addition, criminals infiltrate struggling businesses to use them for smuggling, vehicle-related crime, labor exploitation, or money laundering. This type of organized crime is often accompanied by threats and violence directed at vulnerable business owners or landlords.
About Report a Crime Anonymously
Every year, Report Crime Anonymously sends 20,000 reports to the police and other partners, which help solve cases on a daily basis. The hotline is independent (not affiliated with the police). Tips can be reported anonymously by calling 0800-7000 or through a secure platform at meldmisdaadanoniem.nl.