Wadebridge Police Achieve Success in Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour

n a significant crackdown on anti-social behaviour, the Wadebridge police force has reported considerable success following targeted operations in the area. The operations carried out in collaboration with the specialised ‘Protect & Disrupt’ police team, focused on addressing the rise in anti-social activities over the weekend of 27 January, leading to several arrests and ongoing investigations.

This initiative is part of Operation Loki, a strategic effort introduced in September 2023 aimed at curbing anti-social behaviour, drug-related offences, violent crimes, and knife-related incidents across the neighbourhoods. Operation Loki represents a concerted effort by the force-wide neighbourhood teams to ensure community safety and well-being through various mini-operations targeting these critical issues.

The ‘Protect & Disrupt’ team, known for its proactive approach to supporting neighbourhood teams, employs strategies such as deploying plain-clothed officers to identify and disrupt criminal activities perpetrated by high-risk offenders. Over the past year, their efforts have culminated in the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs, over £60,000 in cash, offensive weapons, and numerous vehicles. These operations have also facilitated the prosecution and sentencing of offenders, contributing to the safety and security of the community.

PC Avery of the ‘Protect & Disrupt’ team highlighted the diverse nature of their deployments, aimed at disrupting a wide range of criminal activities, including anti-social behaviour. The results of these operations have been tangible, with substantial seizures and the apprehension of offenders, underscoring the team’s commitment to safeguarding the community.

Inspector Adam Stonehill expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the recent patrols, emphasising the importance of community intelligence in directing police efforts. The arrests and out-of-court disposals issued as a result of these patrols are a testament to the effectiveness of the collaborative approach between the Wadebridge neighbourhood policing team and the ‘Protect & Disrupt’ team. Inspector Stonehill reassured the community of the police’s dedication to assessing and actioning intelligence to plan future deployments effectively.

The Wadebridge neighbourhood policing team encourages community engagement and regularly updates the public on their efforts via their Facebook page. Residents are also invited to sign up to the Devon & Cornwall alert system for direct email updates on local policing activities, further strengthening the bond between the police force and the community it serves.