Crimes will now be able to be reported anonymously on Facebook.

A Scottish police force have launched a process whereby crimes will be able to be anonymously reported using an advert placed on social networking site Facebook.

Lothian and Borders Police have started the initiative which allows users to anonymously post via an advert on Facebook, allowing people who witness crimes to report them to the police.

The Scottish scheme has the support of the devolved government as well as the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and is believed to be the first of its kind in Scotland.

With police cuts being made by the current coalition government, police forces across the UK have taken to using ever more creative ways in which to tackle crime whilst saving money which is due to be slashed.

Thanks to the prevalence of social media, utilising a site such as Facebook is seen as one of the best ways in which to engage the public with the emergency services, something that police forces in Scotland are taking note of.

Iain Livingstone, the Lothian and Borders Police Assistant Chief Constable said: “We know there are people living beyond their means on the proceeds of crime, be it through the purchase of flash cars, designer clothes or expensive jewellery, and that communities are suffering from the side effects of drug dealing, violence and other associated crimes.

“I personally appeal to local communities who have any information to come forward immediately, either to Crimestoppers or to Lothian and Borders Police.

“Similarly, I would assure people who are trapped by those threatening them with violence or retribution, either associates or partners, that we will help them and tackle the violence and criminality they face. We will act on intelligence and bring offenders to justice,” he added.