Mysuru: Maintaining that public co-operation is crucial for the Police to prevent crimes, Maharaja’s College’s Criminology Department former faculty Dr. Ashok has said that Crime Prevention Month must not be restricted only for the month of December.

Speaking after launching Crime Prevention Month organised by the city Police at SDM College at the foot of Chamundi Hill here yesterday, Dr. Ashok said that the public must not be of the opinion that it is the duty of only the Police to prevent and detect crimes.

Highlighting the role of the public in the prevention and detection of crimes, he regretted that, of late, Police were much engaged in other activities such as providing security to VIPs and VVIPs, which has hindered their Policing.

Underlining the need for reforming criminals and offenders, Dr. Ashok observed that Criminology students must be given preference in Police appointments, as it would largely help in detection of crimes.

City Police Commissioner Dr. A. Subramanyeswara Rao, in his address, stressed on the need for conducting research  on Police investigations at University level.

Explaining the objectives and initiatives of Crime Prevention Month, Dr. Rao urged the public, especially senior citizens, not to fall prey to cheats who lure them on the promise of higher interest on investment of large sums  of money.

Urging the public to keep a watch on Chit Fund companies and persons who cheat the public on the promise of money doubling, the Commissioner sought the co-operation of citizens and the media in tackling rising crimes.

Mysuru District Journalists Association (MDJA) President C.K. Mahendra, DCPs Dr. Vikram V. Amathe and N. Vishnuvardhana, CAR DCP Channaiah and others were present during the inauguration.