New nighttime operation launched to help keep Warrington safe

Cheshire Police launched an operation in Warrington town centre on Saturday as part of an initiative to ensure Warrington is a safe place for all.

Operation Banishing launched in Warrington on Saturday 23 September as part of an initial five-week pilot.

Additional resources in the town centre will complement the existing commitment to nighttime economy policing, utilising specially trained officers in both uniform and plain clothes to identify potential perpetrators.

Drawing on work already undertaken as part of the Constabulary’s Safer Streets project, there is a distinct focus on identifying sexualised anti-social behaviour and reducing violent crime with early intervention.

It is hoped the operation will also provide more opportunities to support and safeguard vulnerable people and signpost them to Safety Buses, introduced as part of the Safer Streets project.

The early part of Saturday evening, between 4pm and 10pm, saw partnership engagement activity in Warrington between police officers and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to promote the Hollie Guard app.

This is a safety app which turns a smartphone into an advanced personal safety device to protect people from danger. Features include shaking the phone to generate an alert which is sent to an emergency contact, with the person’s location, audio, and video evidence of any potential incident, as well as sending out a high-pitched alarm and strobing flash to attract attention.

Later in the night, Warrington officers undertook a number of interventions after gathering intelligence. A total of 10 people were arrested for numerous offences, including drunk and disorderly behaviour, criminal damage, and assault. A further five people were dispersed from the town centre, alongside positive stop and searches.

Inspector Lee Hillyard said:

“We are committed to ensuring that Warrington is a safe space for all.

“Our message is clear - those who come to our town to commit harm are not welcome and will be dealt with robustly.

“Our officers are focused on identifying offenders early and preventing offences. This operation saw effective early intervention, helping to prevent more serious offences as the night progressed.

“Warrington is a fantastic area and we have great relationships with our partners in the Borough Council and our licensed premises to support this robust approach.”