Photo: RCMP

More than $88 million worth of illegal drugs have been taken off the streets in the Central Okanagan as a direct result of Crime Stoppers.

Another $4.3 million in stolen property has been recovered.

The drugs and stolen property were recovered thanks to tips received since the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers was formed 31 years ago.

"Part of the success of Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers is through the complete anonymity of individuals providing valuable information and tips that help RCMP close cases by making arrests and charging criminals," the organization said in a statement.

"In the 31 years that the program has been operating, 906 rewards have been approved worth over $305,000.  While more than 900 rewards have been approved, only 422 tipsters have claimed their cash."

Over 31 years, Crime Stoppers has received more than 25,700 tips which have resulted in 2,760 arrests.

Other statistics released by the organization include:

• Fugitives Arrested:  978
• Cases Cleared:  3,737
• Charges Laid:  664
• Weapons Seized:  42

Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers works in collaboration with the local RCMP detachment, local residents, media and a volunteer board of directors to help solve, and prevent crime.