CRIMESTOPPERS has launched a campaign encouraging Essex residents to speak up about gang-related crime. 

The charity has taken to Facebook and Twitter to raise awareness and seek information about gangs.

Funded by Essex Police, the £7,000 campaign highlights knives, guns, violence, drugs, sexual exploitation and theft are all issues associated with gangs. 

It added the charity wants to raise awareness on these kinds of problems, while urging people to contact them anonymously. 

Antonia Litten, eastern regional manager for Crimestoppers, said: “People often ask me why someone would not contact the police if they knew about gang crimes and violence in their neighbourhood or about someone who carries a knife, or someone who was being sexually exploited by a gang. 

“Sometimes, it can be the fear of a criminal finding out that you have gone to the police about them; it can paralyse a community. 

Crimestoppers takes information anonymously. We don’t take any personal details and we can’t trace information given online or over the phone. We give people that peace of mind.

“Those that do not want to speak with Essex Police about gang-related crime can contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously through our 24-hour number 0800 555 111 or our secure online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The campaign launches as part of the Essex Gangs Conference, hosted by Essex Police, held on Monday June 6.

Crimestoppers received a grant for £7,200 from the Police and Crime Commissioner to fund the awareness campaign.

Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “I am pleased to support this Crimestoppers campaign designed to raise awareness of gang activity, enabling members of the public to report suspicions anonymously and safely. 

“I hope this will help build an intelligence picture which will form part of a strategy of disrupting gangs, of protecting the vulnerable, and of intervening early to provide meaningful alternatives to gang life.”