Thousands Use Police WeChat To Report Dodgy Drivers

Police on Monday said a new platform for people to report suspected traffic offences has received more than 5,600 complaints in just over a month.

The force began a trial run in April for people to submit videos or photos via WeChat of suspected violations such as dangerous or careless driving, failure to follow road signs, or ignoring traffic lights.

Chief superintendent Damon Au said the new platform has made it easier for people to report non-urgent offences and has helped with police investigations.

"In recent years, police have often found videos of traffic offences caught on dash cameras uploaded onto different social media platforms or discussion forums," he explained.

"When the police want to investigate, we need to contact the person who upload the video, who is usually the driver, to get related information for further action."

When making a report through the WeChat function, a complainant needs to provide contact information and specify the details of the suspected offence, as well as the vehicle plate number in question.

The police said a majority of the complaints received so far have been substantiated.