Blitz against booze-related crime

The Safer Lanarkshire campaign aims to reduce crime levels

Police in Lanarkshire have launched a crackdown on violence, anti-social behaviour, drug and alcohol-fuelled crime and vandalism.

As part of the Safer Lanarkshire campaign, additional officers will target known trouble spots aiming to disrupt gang activity and disorder.

A mobile climbing wall and football pitch will be used to encourage young people to do more positive activities.

Officers will also crackdown on shops selling alcohol to underage drinkers.

It follows the success of a similar county-wide scheme last year.

Senior police officers said that initiative had contributed to a substantial reduction in violence and anti-social behaviour in Lanarkshire, resulting in fewer victims of crime.

Divisional commander for South Lanarkshire, Ch Supt Tim Love, said: "Enforcement will be a major strand with intelligence-led test purchase operations and high profile policing.

"Diversionary initiatives for young people and the introduction of a taxi marshalling scheme, backed by local licence premise holders, have both been key to the success of the campaign."

He added: "I'm sure that with this continued help and support we can build on the progress we've already made and make our communities safer."

Increased patrols

The blitz on booze-related crime is being run in conjunction with Lanarkshire's Alcohol and Drug Action Team (ADAT).

Valerie Tallon, co-ordinator for Lanarkshire ADAT, said: "We were delighted with the success of the previous Safer Lanarkshire campaign which featured a variety of initiatives designed to reduce alcohol-related violence on our streets.

"The 08/09 campaign will build on this success and we look forward to getting feedback on the impact it has made over the next 12 months."

In the last month an additional 13 officers have joined the Lanarkshire Divisions.

Over the next few months a further 32 officers will join South Lanarkshire and an additional 40 officers will join North Lanarkshire.

The Safer Lanarkshire campaign will run until April 2009.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version