Public urged to use online service to report suspected security threats

AMMAN — The Public Security Department (PSD) on Tuesday urged the public to use its online service to report any "suspicious activity" that may pose a threat to the Kingdom's security.  

Dubbed "Protect your homeland", the service is available on the PSD's official website: (http://www.sb.psd.gov.jo/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=294&Itemid=272), where people can report an incident and attach photos or documents related to it.

Providing one's name, phone number or e-mail is optional. 

"Protect your country from conspirators, opportunists and corrupt people," the message on the website says. 

“If you have any piece of information that contributes to ensuring the safety of your country, do not hesitate to report it because a simple tip might bring great benefits.” 

Amman residents interviewed by The Jordan Times commended the new service, saying that the public must be responsible for the safety of their country. 

Mahmoud Misleh, a private sector employee, said such a service will encourage people to report any violations they witness. 

“Some people do not have the courage to go to a police station to report anything because they may be asked to give personal details. A friend of mine was forced to leave his neighbourhood because some people used to attack his grocery store and he was scared to report it,” Misleh said.

Muhannad Neimat, a salesman, suggested that the PSD make it obligatory for those who report something to identify themselves to limit the number of false reports.

But by making it optional to provide personal information, the PSD “will receive a flood of reports, not all of which will necessarily be true”, Neimat argued. 

He acknowledged, however, that such a service is vital amidst the instability the region is witnessing these days. 

“The most important thing in our country is the blessing of security. Though there is nothing to worry about in Jordan, it is good to have new means and measures to further ensure security,” Neimat added. 

“Every Jordanian is responsible for the security of Jordan.” 

Saif Awamleh also praised the initiative, noting that the online service will help save time and effort. 

“Sometimes people do not have cars to go to the police station or do not have enough time to go; now they can write down the details they want to report just by using their mobile phones,” he said.