Number of burglaries decreases in Tilburg neighborhoods with WhatsApp neighborhood watch

The number of burglaries in Tilburg neighborhoods where a ‘WhatsApp neighborhood watch’ is active has fallen by 50 percent. This is according to research by Tilburg University. In group chats, residents point out suspicious activities in the neighbourhood.

Researcher Martijn Akkermans says in Algemeen Dagblad that he suspects that the group chats have a deterrent effect on burglars. Burglaries are often committed by local burglars. If they know that a WhatsApp group is active, they will drop out. Local residents may also become more alert and are more likely to call the police if they see something suspicious.

The WhatsApp groups can also have the effect that local residents are more aware of the dangers of burglary and therefore do more on prevention.

The Ministry of Security and Justice included the results of the investigation in a crime newsletter last week. In 2014 and 2015, the survey was conducted in 35 neighborhoods in Tilburg, all of which had a ‘WhatsApp neighborhood watch’ at different times. The WhatsApp group is managed by the municipality, which invites people. If suspicious cases have been identified, the municipality can share them with the police from the group chat. The group chat also includes a private Facebook group to share tips and other safety issues. Anyone taking part must first call 112 when a suspicious situation is identified and only then must inform the rest of the neighborhood via WhatsApp.