British Transport Police will be carrying out high visibility patrols to reassure the travelling public at peak times over the weekend. Operation Stronghold, which will run for the next two weekends at Leeds, Newcastle, Hull and York stations, will see enhanced patrols aimed at reassuring and engaging with weekend rail users.
The operation is designed to prevent the escalation of alcohol fueled anti social behavior. Patrols will take place from early evening to target the busy night-time economy at key stations which bring revelers to city center destinations.
Previous deployments in other divisions have resulted in a significant drop in instances of anti social behavior.
Op Stronghold lead Insp Gary Jones said, “By increasing our visibility and activity we will be reassuring the public that they can travel in a safe and secure environment. Complimenting our usual patrols, Operation Stronghold is an important initiative that demonstrates the vital role BTP has to play in keeping the railway safe and secure for all who use it.”
The aim of the operation is one of reassurance and a preventative measure to halt any alcohol fueled anti- social behavior before it starts.
Insp Gary Jones added, “Put simply, Op Stronghold Is about having officers at key locations at key times to reduce crime and keep the travelling public safe.
“We want everyone using the rail network at the weekend to enjoy a safe and secure journey. We will be at key stations that attract a number of revelers to the city center at a weekend to offer reassurance. We will also be promoting the use of our unique text number 61016 which allows rail users to report crime or anti social behavior in a discreet manner."
