Project Kraken - Please note updated Coastal Crime Hotline

Do you sail or use small boats for leisure or business?

Do you work in maritime industries or near a harbour?

Do you dive, fish, or visit the coast regularly or live close by?

If so, Project Kraken needs your help. 

Project Kraken is a National Crime Agency, Police and Border Force initiative to increase vigilence along the UK's coastline and maritime environment. 

There are nearly 20,000 miles of coastline and complex networks of estuaries, navigable rivers, coves, inlets, ports and harbours, all of which can be exploited by terrorists and serious criminals. 

We want you to report any unusual or suspicious behaviour in these and other maritime environments. No matter how trivial it may seem, if it looks out of the ordinary, we want to know about it. 

Whether you work in the maritime industries, are a keen sailor, or are just walking along the coast, your local knowledge and your experience of the maritime world means you are well placed to spot anything unusual. 

By working together, we can prevent terrorists and organised criminals posing a threat to your neighbours, your pastimes, your businesses and your livelihoods. They will exploit any opening they can find.

How can you help?

We want you to report any unusual or suspicious activity. This could include:

·  Crew who show signs of nervousness or a lack of awareness of maritime protocols and customs. 

·  Vessels showing signs of unusual modifications or light damage.

·  Increased activity at isolated coastal locations or at unusual times of the day.

·  Any attempts to signal to vessels offshore or guide them into an unusual place.

·  Strange patterns of payment, such as large amounts of cash.

·  People testing site security or an unusual interest in site structures and wharfs. 

What should you do?

If you seen any unusual or suspicious activity, report it to your local Police on 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on the dedicated Coastal Crime line - 0800 011 3304 - and quote “KRAKEN.”

If you want to report anonymously online, visit www.crimestoppers.uk.org 

Record as much information as you can - the smallest detail could be significant. 

Do not take direct action against any individuals or groups. If it is an emergency, dial 999.