Police have launched a new WhatsApp number to get support from residents in controlling law and order as well as report criminal incidents.

Patna senior superintendent of police (SSP) Manu Maharaaj said the new number (9939919191) will provide an opportunity to people to inform the police about their problems besides providing the cops tip-offs and pictures of suspicious people.

"The number has been launched to help the people get assistance. The number would be functional all the time and will be monitored by me. The police, after proper verification, will take necessary action," the officer said.

The officer said people could share any information, which they consider important and helpful. "The identity of the sender/s would be kept a secret. Many a times, it happens that people have seen something wrong or suspicious taking place but do not want to approach the police directly. Bribery has always been a concern and people can click pictures of the incident and send it across. Action will be initiated immediately. Pictures of suspicious people can be clicked and sent. The local police station or the nearest patrol party would be asked to reach the spot immediately. Such things would help the police," the SSP pointed out.

The officer added that complaints could be also sent via the number. "They will not be treated as FIRs. But any complaint coming in will be verified properly. For lodging an FIR, one has to approach the police station concerned. The police would also verify the identities and backgrounds of the message sender. There is always a chance of a mischief. A team would work on the new programme and we do hope that it will click among the people," Maharaaj said.