Shanghai police Tuesday said they will offer rewards of up to 300,000 yuan (43,950 U.S. dollars) for tip-offs over serious crimes in a bid to ensure a safe World Expo.

Once the tip-off is confirmed, the informant will be rewarded based on the value of his information. For confirmed tip-offs concerning terrorism, violent crimes, organized crimes and serious economic crimes, the rewards range from 5,000 yuan to 300,000 yuan.

The policy is in effect until December 31, 2010, the Shanghai municipal public security bureau said in a statement.

The informants' identities will be kept confidential. Those who disclose the identities will be held responsible for all the consequences, said the statement.

People can report crimes by dialing 110, sending e-mails or letters or reporting in person to the police.

But anyone who purposely provides false tip-offs will also be held accountable.

The World Expo 2010 will be held in Shanghai from May 1 to October 31 next year.

(Xinhua News Agency September 22, 2009)