Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) Transit Police Chief Ron Pavlik announced the launch of Metro’s “MyMTPD Text Tips” program, the newest way for riders to contact the transit agency’s police department.

Through this new service, Metro riders can now use their cell phones to text information about suspicious activity, unattended bags, panhandling and other non-emergencies.

“Information from riders and employees, serving as the eyes and ears of the system, can help transit police respond quickly to suspicious activity or unattended items,” said Pavlik. “MyMTPD Text Tips now gives riders a convenient way to provide us with information that can help keep the system safe.”

Text Tips can be used to report unattended packages, suspicious activity, panhandling, solicitation, vending without a license, parking complaints, tips about investigations or other non-emergency matters.

When texting a tip, riders are encouraged to provide as much information as possible, including the location, the nature of the incident or activity, and a description of persons of interest. The message will be sent directly to the Metro Transit Police communication center, and riders will receive a confirmation that their text has been sent.

“MyMTPD Text Tips” is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The system is a service of eAlert, which also serves as the backbone for the MetroAlerts email and text message alert system.