Additional police patrols to tackle night crime

Extra patrols will take place in a city centre over the weekend, a police force has said.

Gloucestershire Police will supply additional officers in Gloucester city centre as part of Operation Comet, which aims to help keep people safe on a night out while also identifying offenders who target the night-time economy.

The operation, which has been running monthly since earlier this year, has previously resulted in multiple arrests for drug offences and drink driving.

Insp Ash Gardner, from Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Since starting Operation Comet, we have already seen the huge impact it is having on deterring criminals from coming to our city."

He added: "Gloucester is rightly recognised as a safe place for people to enjoy a night out.

"We want to ensure that this continues and will aim to stop anyone who comes to the city looking to commit crime."

While on patrol, the officers will be looking to prevent youth crime, anti-social behaviour, violence against women and girls and the sale of drugs.

The force will work alongside Night Angels, Street Pastors, Night Safe officers, street medics and licensed premises.

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