Reporting Crime: A Contribution to Preventing Offences

Public awareness and active civic participation play an important role in community safety. Promptly reporting signs of a crime can help victims receive assistance, prevent a dangerous situation from escalating and protect others from harm. The attitude that “this does not concern me” may leave someone who needs help without support.

If you witness a crime or an immediately dangerous incident, first ensure your own safety. In an emergency, call the police on 102. Clearly explain the location, approximate time, what is happening and who needs assistance. Do not delay reporting a danger simply because you do not know every detail.

A crime report may be submitted in writing or orally. Distinguish what you personally observed from information received from others. Clearly identify uncertain details as assumptions. Assessing the incident legally and determining guilt are matters for the competent authorities.

Preserving existing messages, payment records and other relevant materials may assist the authorities. However, do not approach a dangerous location to collect evidence, confront a suspected offender or unnecessarily move objects at the scene. Do not delay calling for help to take photographs or record a video.

Knowingly making a false report carries legal liability. However, a suspicion reported in good faith does not become deliberately false merely because it is not confirmed during an inquiry. Give an accurate account, avoid inventing evidence and communicate the information you have objectively.

If you experience threats or pressure because you reported an incident, inform the competent authorities and request safety measures. Do not publish a victim’s personal details or circulate unverified accusations. Responsible conduct by students and staff also helps maintain a safe educational environment. Timely and truthful reporting makes a practical contribution to protecting lives, individual rights and public safety.