A SMOKING gun with the words 'I know where you live' is just one of a number of malicious mobile phone text messages which are on the increase.

Sergeant Julian Heard said police are actively investigating around 300 reports a year in South Bucks of malicious messages and calls from mobile phones.

And they are now receiving two to three calls per day from people complaining of nuisance calls and texts.

He said new technology, the rise of cyber cafs and the increase in the number of children using phones is responsible for rocketing reports.

He added: "There are people who have been getting quite abusive and obscene calls and text messages and people should realise how distressing they can be for the recipients.

"We suspect many calls are made by youngsters as there are lots of schoolchildren wandering around with phones."

But Sgt Heard, of Amersham Police, wants to send out a message of his own to those sending the malicious texts they will not be tolerated.

He said police do have powers to act if the messages are seen to be harassment or threatening, and phone lines can be cut by companies if the user is abusing the line.

He added: "If the calls are seen as threatening, you can call the police but the faster you contact your provider the more chance you have of getting the call traced even if it is anonymous."

Sgt Heard said the person who is traced as the source of rude messages is liable, even if the message is being sent by someone else using their phone or computer.

Victims can call Amersham Police on (01494) 465888