Operation Serve and Protect cracks down on robbers

COVENTRY Police has vowed to tackle robbery – everything from street snatches to security van raids – as part of a new drive launched across the West Midlands.

Since April, the focus of the force's Operation Serve and Protect has been on rigorous offender management – pursuing offenders who ignore court orders, checking curfews are adhered to, and executing arrest warrants.

But after a successful, intensive three-month push – which saw 167 Serve and Protect arrests across Coventry – attention from July onwards has switched to combating robbery.

Over the coming months there will be a range of police operations targeting street robbers, protecting public transport users, and monitoring security van deliveries and commercial premises.

Coventry Police Detective Chief Inspector Dave Reilly, said: "Robbery is a terrifying crime which leaves victims with lasting fears…we will be doing all we can to reduce this type of crime.

"In Coventry, we've achieved a reduction in robbery numbers over the past few months. With the anticipated seasonal rise in robbery this downward trend will be harder to sustain – but alongside partners we'll be doing all we can to prevent robberies from occurring and to catch and convict offenders."

Under the operation, 'fast-track' response plans will see officers reacting to reports of robberies in progress by flooding the area, locking it down, and cutting off potential escape routes for offenders.

An update on robbery-related arrests will be available here soon.

DCI Reilly, added: "It's been a very successful start to the operation…we'll continue to investigate reports of robbery thoroughly and maximise every evidential opportunity to bring offenders to justice.

"Our plain clothes patrols will look for suspicious behaviour; we'll make a point of engaging with anyone who arouses cause for concern.

"But officers will also be out to help people who could be vulnerable, maybe those who've been out for a few drinks, by reminding them not to display phones or valuables and checking they've made plans to get home safely."

For advice on how to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of robbery and stay safe when out and about, visit: www.safer-streets.org

There are several ways to find out how we're doing:

• You can follow all the most recent news posted by our officers on Twitter by simply clicking on #serveprotectwmp.
• Get the latest updates by becoming a fan of our Coventry Police Facebook page.
• Look out for Coventry press releases in our Local News section.
• Click here for more information about Serve and Protect on the main West Midlands Police website.