The campaign began in some parts of the state on Monday, but will be launched in the Central West Police District – which has 15 police stations including those in Orange, Parkes, Forbes, Molong, Cumnock and Trundle – on February 26.

Orange councillor Jason Hamling hoped residents wouldn’t hesitate to report illegal or suspicious activity.

“A quick call to Crime Stoppers can give police that extra bit of information they need to make a breakthrough in an investigation,” he said.

“The police don’t necessarily want to know who you are. They want to know what you can tell them.”

The last campaign in the city – which ran from February 2016 to March 2017 – was aimed at stopping the supply of illicit drugs including methylamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, heroin and cannabis.

Data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research showed though methylamphetamine- and cannabis-related offences are declining in Orange, they continue to pose a problem for law enforcement authorities.

Police registered 84 offences related to the possession or use of methylamphetamine between October 2013 and September 2014, followed by 73 in the same period in 2014-15, 88 (2015-16), 47 (2016-17) and 55 (2017-18).

Similarly, police registered 157 offences related to the possession or use of cannabis between October 2013 and September 2014, followed by 201 (2014-15), 154 (2015-16), 91 (2016-17) and 93 (2017-18).

Data showed methylamphetamine abuse in Orange was higher than in Bathurst and similar to Dubbo, while cannabis abuse was higher than in Bathurst, but lower than Dubbo. 

Cr Hamling said the campaign’s prospects hinged on residents taking an active interest in their neighbourhood and city.

“It’s very healthy for a community, for locals to have a constructive and informed interest in what’s going on in their neighbourhood,” he said. 

“It’s good to keep an eye out for people who live nearby, and then decide what’s the best thing to do about it. For instance, it might be good to give someone a pat on the back when you see someone doing the right thing. 

Police said they will conduct intensive community engagement activities and seek public help in shutting down drug manufacturing syndicates.

Residents are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report securely online at www.crimestoppers.com.au if they have information about someone who is manufacturing or supplying drugs.