THE reason behind why a large police presence was deployed to Warrington town centre yesterday, Wednesday, has been revealed.
Residents and shoppers reported seeing increased police officer numbers, which has now been confirmed to be a cross-force security operation.
Teams from Cheshire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester and British Transport Police teamed up to strengthen their network of vigilance ahead of Christmas markets opening across the region.
On Wednesday, Project Servator officers conducted patrols across the centre of Warrington, as well as the town’s train stations.
Cheshire Police said that highly visible Project Servator deployments are deliberately unpredictable, with the aim of the tactic being to disrupt criminal activity, including terrorism, while providing a reassuring presence for the public.
The deployments use specially trained uniform and plain clothes officers to spot the tell-tale signs that someone may have criminal intent, such as gathering information that may help them plan or prepare to commit a crime.
Officers are supported by colleagues in other specialist roles including the dog section, firearms and CCTV operators.
CI Iain Wyke, of protective security operations at Merseyside Police said: “During deployments, officers will encourage the public, including people working in local businesses, to be extra eyes and ears, and report suspicious activity.
“The aim is to build a network of vigilance made up of business and community partners and the general public.
“This operation has been a great opportunity to combine expertise from each of the four forces and demonstrate the effectiveness of Project Servator deployments, not only at a local level, but also at a regional level.
“During the deployments, officers made several arrests for offences including theft, possession of controlled drugs, breach of prison licence and public order offences.”
Warrington Local Policing Unit sergeant Graham Robinson added: “This was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the work we do with our regional colleagues to disrupt crime.
“Our show of force aimed to emphasise the message that there are no borders.
“We work together on a regular basis to make life difficult for those intent on committing crime and to protect those going about their lawful business.
“It also gave us an opportunity to talk to people about Project Servator and how they too can get involved in keeping their communities safe by reporting anything they see that does not seem right.”
Chief Inspector Iain Wyke continued: “These deployments will continue throughout the region, and if you see one, there is nothing to worry about.
“Feel free to talk to the officers and they will explain what they are doing and how you can help keep people safe.
“Everybody has a vital role to play and what we ask is simple. Stay alert and trust your instincts. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, tell a member of staff or a police officer.
“Do not assume someone else will do it. However insignificant you think something may be, trust your instincts and report it, because your actions could potentially save lives.”
To report suspicious activity, call the police on 101. Suspicious activity is anything that seems out of place, unusual or does not seem to fit in with day-to-day life. If it is an emergency, always call 999.
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