High-visibility patrols are being stepped up in Nottingham city centre so people can enjoy what the city has to offer and feel safe.
Police said:
‘Our teams continue to be present – both visibly and discreetly – as part of an ongoing operation to combat antisocial behaviour and knife crime.
‘Earlier this month we announced that as well as patrols by the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, armed officers would also be deployed as reassurance to the public that we are there should anyone need us. We would like to stress that this is as a contingency and not in relation to any specific intelligence.
‘Trained security officers are also present at the Winter Wonderland site, with My Local Bobby officers from It’s in Nottingham carrying out foot patrols alongside Nottingham City Council’s Neighbourhood Support Officers.
‘In light of an isolated recent incident where machetes were wielded during a confrontation between two groups outside the Council House on Sunday, high-visibility patrols are being enhanced even further.’
Assistant Chief Constable Suk Verma said:
“We know that after Sunday’s incident in the city centre, people are understandably worried. But I want to reassure the public that was an isolated incident, and officers were on scene within one minute.
“However, uniformed patrols are being stepped up over the coming days to provide further reassurance and maintain a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
“Whether you’re out and about enjoying Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland, shopping, or working, we want the city centre to be a safe and welcoming place for you. Nottingham is a brilliant city and attracts people from all over the country.
“Patrolling the market is something we do every single year when it takes place, so it is not unusual to see officers walking within the city centre and throughout the festivities that take place within the centre.
“However, in light of the concern caused by Sunday’s incident, I have taken the decision to step up high-visibility patrols even further.
“This evening you should expect to see more officers out and about in key locations around the city centre and that will continue, around the clock, over the coming days.
“This increased police presence is part of a broader strategy to address knife crime in the city, which includes community engagement and working with partners to tackle the root causes of knife crime.
“I’d like to reassure the public we will continue to use stop and search powers, CCTV, and other resources to track down those involved in knife crime and ensure they are brought to justice.”
ACC Verma added:
“Nottingham belongs to us all. It is our city, and we will not tolerate or stand for any behaviour that detracts from our communities being able to enjoy the wonderful retail, working or entertainment facilities.
“The behaviour of a small minority of pathetic individuals will not win, and as of today we have made two arrests, and my promise is that there will be more.”
