PSNI Launches Annual Christmas Operation

Police launched Operation Season's Greetings today ahead of the busy festive period.

The annual Chrismas operation, which aims to keep people safe in the run-up to and over the Christmas and New Year period, will see an increase in proactive police patrols across key areas of Northern Ireland.

Officers will prioritise main shopping areas in town and city centres, lively night-life hospitality hotspots and major car parking facilities in an effort to prevent crime and reassure both shoppers and business owners that additional resources will be in place.

Police have teamed up with key partners, including Retail NI and Translink, to deliver this operation effectively.

Police Lead for Operation Season's Greetings, Chief Superintendent Stephen Murray, said: "Christmas should not be a time of year where families and friends feel unsafe as they prepare for the festive period, so the enhanced action will contribute towards tackling criminality through greater engagement with local communities, businesses and strategic associates.

"For the month of December, our focus will be on public safety across a range of priorities including roads, shopping destinations, nightlife and public spaces, public transport and violence against women and girls, to ensure your overall safety when out and about.

"We will also be encouraging the public to adopt simple crime prevention measures regarding personal property and home safety, particularly those who plan to travel away over the festive period.

"Whether you are planning a festive night out, considering shopping online, concerned about the best way to secure your home or if you are just not sure of the best way to contact your local police, there is a wealth of information on our website which everyone will find useful."

Chief Superintendent Murray also highlighted the past increase in domestic abuse incidents over the Christmas period and reminded victims that the police are there for them no matter the time of day.

Chief Superintendent Murray added: "If you need police assistance, please call us on 101 or report online. Always call 999 in an emergency. We will take active steps to support all victims of domestic abuse."

Meanwhile, Ian Campbell, Translink Director of Service Operations, said: "Safety is always our top priority. We are pleased to support Operation Season's Greetings, working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the PSNI Safe Transport Team over the festive period, giving our passengers and staff a safe environment to travel and work.

"You can find out more about Translink's Christmas travel arrangements on our website or social media channels to help plan your journeys."

Glyn Roberts, Retail NI Chief Executive, added: "We want shoppers to have a safe and enjoyable Christmas, so it's important they follow the PSNI advice. We will also be encouraging our members to be vigilant and to ensure they play their part in this important campaign."

For more information on the Police Service of Northern Ireland click here.