ILLEGAL DRUG DEALER DRIVE SUCCESSFUL

The Ipswich community contributed to the success of last Friday's National
Crime Stoppers Day.

Residents were encouraged to "make it a dark day for dealers" by reporting
illegal drug and criminal activity to Crime Stoppers by phoning the 1800
333 000 number or visiting stalls at Brassall and Booval shopping centres.

Ipswich District Crime Prevention Unit officer-in-charge Sergeant Nadine
Webster said the campaign aimed to gather vital information that could
lead to the successful prosecution and conviction of offenders and reduce
the impact of drugs on the community.

"We had an overwhelming response from the community with a number of
people approaching police and the volunteers in policing to discuss
matters of concern and seek proactive strategies," Sgt Webster said. "It's
pleasing that people took the time to come and speak to us."

Sgt Webster said Crime Stoppers continued to have a direct and positive
impact in the Ipswich region.

"During January, police seized $651 in drugs and arrested five people on
nine charges as a direct result of the service," she said.

She said the Ipswich Crime Stoppers Area Committee had a number of events
planned for 2009 to raise awareness and funds for the Crime Stoppers
program.

The first event to be held will be a four-member team Ambrose Golf Day at
Sandy Gallop Golf Course, Lobb St, Ipswich on Sunday, March 15.