Capital crackdown on crime in Christmas countdown

Tourist hotspots and other busy areas of London will see an increased effort this Christmas to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour.

Hundreds of additional police officers will be on patrol after dark to keep communities safe, working with local businesses and councils to protect shoppers, retail workers, and people on a night out.

Areas of high footfall will be policed by plain clothes officers and high-visibility patrols with extra focus on known prolific shoplifters and threats of male violence on women and girls.

This approach of "hotspot policing" is part of a project supported by investment from City Hall which aims to tackle crime and rebuild public confidence and trust.

To reduce knife crime, the Met will use data analysis to pinpoint locations in Westminster, Croydon, Lambeth, Southwark, and Haringey where it is most prevalent.

Officers will have resources such as live facial recognition, traffic interceptors and e-bike teams, to target criminality in town centres.

This time of year is known as the "golden quarter" of trade, generating more than £1billion of business in the capital, according to City Hall.

Sir Sadiq Khan said: "Nowhere compares to London at Christmas and with just 12 days left until the big day, our high streets, retailers, pubs, bars and restaurants are set for some roaring trade.

"I'll continue to do all I can working with businesses, communities and the police to build on these crime reductions and deliver a safer London, Christmas and 2026 for everyone."

Tourism body Visit London welcomed the measures, and said the capital "saw visitors from all around the world flock to soak in the magical atmosphere.

"It's great to see the added support in place to keep visitors and Londoners safe during the festive season."

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