SMS-enabled citizens hunt crooks in Germany

Germany's government has turned to its mobilized citizens for help in tracking down suspected criminals, fugitives and even missing persons, according to Network World Fusion.

"Citizens over 16 years old can now register with the Federal Office of Criminal Investigation (BKA) and become a volunteer mobile phone cop.

The service is based on registered volunteers receiving an text message from the police and calling back if they spot someone.

Before launching the SMS search service, the German Interior Ministry authorized pilot tests for over a year with police departments in 10 cities. The results were overwhelmingly positive, according to Interior Minister Otto Schily, who last month approved nationwide rollout of the service".

For other examples of how police around the world are using SMS to enforce the law, check out this category in textually.org.

emily | 6:42 PM | SMS used by the Police |
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