Merseyside Police launch operation to reduce crime and keep communities safe this Christmas

Merseyside Police has launched Operation Shepherd, its annual campaign to reduce crime and keep communities safe during the festive period.

More Merseyside Police officers will be out and about from now, through to Christmas and into New Year.

This will include uniformed and plain clothes officers, supported by specialist teams including the Dog Section, Mounted Section and Air Support.

A wide variety of teams will be working together to prevent crime and identify those that do commit offences, using every tactic we have available to track the offenders down and put them before the courts.

Whilst out on patrol, officers will be speaking to residents and business owners to offer crime prevention advice and tips on how they can keep themselves, their property and premises safe.

Chief Inspector Rob Budden, who is leading the operation, said: 

“We always step-up patrols on the run up to Christmas because historically, we have seen a rise in crimes such as burglary, robbery, domestic violence, and drink or drug driving. It’s also normal to see an increased police presence in busy locations including shopping centres, Christmas markets and other popular attractions throughout Merseyside.

“You’ll also see extra officers policing the night-time economies of the city and busy town centres throughout Merseyside. We work closely with partners and are linked in with door staff, licensees, and bar staff to help make sure you feel safe whilst enjoying a night out. 

“We will continue our Project Servator deployments, which use uniformed and plain clothes officers who are specially trained to identify individuals who may have criminal intent. These deployments can pop up anywhere at any time, and if you see one, it’s nothing to worry about. Officers will be happy to explain what they are doing and answer any questions you have, so feel free to talk to them and find out how you can help keep people safe.”

Chief Inspector Budden added:

“This year we are using a movie theme to spread our crime prevention messages. Keep an eye on our social media accounts and on buses and digital displays throughout Merseyside.”

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: 

“Throughout the Christmas period Merseyside Police have a crucial role to play in ensuring everyone across our region can enjoy the festive period safely. These additional resources will target callous individuals who would seek to ruin Christmas by committing crimes such as burglary, robbery, fraud and violence.

“Operation Shepherd will provide crime prevention advice, extra patrols and the high visibility activity over the next month and I hope this additional activity will reassure people living, working and visiting our region that they are able to enjoy this magical time of year.” 

Look out for each other this Christmas and report crimes or suspicious behaviour to us via @MerPolCC, 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.

For crime prevention advice and links to specialist support services, click here.