drugs cases.

The trio -- who have not been named -- have benefited from the cash-for-tips Crime Stoppers programme launched on September 12.

Crime Stoppers chairman Mr. McNeil Warner said the programme had received 19 calls since its launch.

"Sixteen of these have related to drugs, and only five people have asked for remuneration,'' he said yesterday.

"Some people see it as their civic duty to pass on information, and don't want payment.'' Mr. Warner refused to divulge the amount of money so far paid out.

"That remains confidential.'' Crime Stoppers, a non-profit organisation, is an initiative involving the Police, the community and media.

At its launch, Police Commissioner Mr. Colin Coxall hailed Crime Stoppers as an effective potential weapon against drugs.

Mr. Coxall said he had witnessed first hand the "astonishing successes'' of Crime Stoppers in Europe, and in London in particular.

Under the scheme, which has Government support, people can pass on tips with complete anonymity by ringing 1-800-623-8477.

Callers are assigned code numbers when they pass on their tips, and any reward is assessed by the Crime Stoppers 12-strong Board of Directors.

"The money is paid once the Police investigators are satisfied the information has been of use. The reward is paid in cash,'' explained Mr.

Warner.

Mr. Warner said the scheme had proved a success to date.

"I think it's going well as more people are becoming familiar with the Crime Stoppers number.''