How to report a crime

British Police
Photo by King’s Church International on Unsplash

Call 999 in emergency situations like these:

  • There is an immediate danger to life.
  • Someone is using violence or is threatening to be violent.
  • A road traffic collision where life is at risk, or the road is blocked.
  • Crime is happening right now, like a house burglary or a theft.

If you accidentally dial 999, please stay on the line and tell the operator you’re safe and that no crime has occurred.

Hearing or speech impairments

  • If you have a hearing or speech impairment, and you’ve pre-registered with the emergency SMS service, you can use our text phone service 18000 or text us on 999.
  • If you’re a British Sign Language (BSL) user, you can call 999 BSL to use a remote BSL interpreter.

Silent 999 calls

  • If you’re in danger, but you can’t talk on the phone, you should still call 999 and try to speak to the operator if you can, even by whispering. You may also be asked to cough or tap the keys on your phone to answer questions.
  • Calling 999 from a mobile:
    • If you don’t speak or answer questions, press 55 or tap when prompted and your call will be transferred to the police.
    • The police will usually be able to find your location
    • If you don’t press 55 or respond, your call could be ended
  • Calling 999 from a landline
    • If you don’t speak or answer questions and the operator can only hear background noise, they’ll transfer your call to the police.
    • If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick it up again.
    • Calling 999 from a landline automatically gives the police information about your location.

Non-emergency Dial 101

Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our text phone service on 18001 101.

Report anonymously

You can visit CrimeStoppers or call 0800 555 111 to anonymously report a crime or suspicious behaviour.