CRIME STOPPERS INCREASING TIP INCENTIVES FOR CRIMES ASSOCIATED WITH
CRYSTAL METH

As part of a team approach to combat the destructive force of crystal
meth in Manitoba, Crime Stoppers across the province are increasing
the incentive for citizens to call in anonymously with information on
production and distribution of the drug.

With the unveiling of their new joint public service announcement,
the Manitoba, Winnipeg and Brandon Crime Stoppers have announced that
for the month of February they are doubling the cash awards for
information on the production or distribution of crystal methamphetamine.

"We hope that by joining forces to tackle the ongoing problem of
crystal meth in Manitoba we will better highlight the issue and
prompt concerned citizens to pass along information anonymously,"
says RCMP Sgt. Larry Renkas, program coordinator of Manitoba Crime
Stoppers. "The three Crime Stoppers programs are pleased to join our
partners in law enforcement, media and the citizens of Manitoba to be
a part of the province's meth strategy."

"The province of Manitoba is pleased with the initiative shown by
Crime Stoppers and its partner agencies to deal with crystal meth in
our province," said Gord Mackintosh, Manitoba Minister of Justice and
Attorney General.

"We are committed to ongoing cooperation with our partners here in
Manitoba, across Canada and internationally to restrict the supply
and reduce the demand for crystal meth."

"Partnerships like this are integral to getting the message out to
all Manitobans," said Brandon Police Chief Richard Bruce.

"Combating the spread of crystal meth use, production and
distribution is an important community issue. We are pleased to help
prevent the widespread use of this dangerous drug by showing our
support for Crime Stoppers and making our communities aware of the
Crime Stoppers phone number: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)."

In 2005 tips to the three Crime Stoppers programs in Manitoba have
resulted in the seizure of over $29 million in illegal narcotics, the
recovery of $3.2 million in stolen property and the approval of 550
cash awards totaling over $60,000.

The RCMP "D" Division, Winnipeg Police Service and Brandon Police
Service have each dedicated a program coordinator for the respective
Crime Stoppers programs. All three programs are active with youth
throughout the province and have made over 50 presentations to
schools in Brandon, Winnipeg and rural Manitoba.

The Manitoba, Winnipeg and Brandon Crime Stoppers programs are each
operated by volunteer boards of directors representing their
respective areas. The boards coordinate the program, establish
policies and raise funds. At the local level, volunteers serve on
regional boards and on community committees. They are involved in
publicizing the program, raising funds, and overseeing award payments
at the community level.