Police step up patrols to tackle Halloween and bonfire night crime

Police have launched Operation Hallfire against an expected seasonal increase in crime and anti-social behaviour in Highgate over the Halloween and fireworks season.

Operation Hallfire is the police local response to the issues that every London Borough is working to tackle under Operation Autumn Nights.

This sees officers:

• Visiting roads in high crime areas to distribute information to help people take action to prevent burglary.
• Volunteer Police Cadets working with police officers and Trading Standards to carry out test purchase operations against rogue and licensed firework sellers.
• Safer Schools officers attending schools and youth clubs across the borough briefing students about responsible behaviour and staying safe over this period.
• Joint police patrols with Haringey Council Noise Enforcement Officers.
• Weapon sweeps to identify and remove weapons stashed in public places.
• Safer Neighbourhoods officers inviting their local ward Councillors to accompany them on a walkabout to discuss local issues.
• Safer Neighbourhoods officers reminding retailers of the laws around the sale of fireworks, as well as issuing them with a letter and advice about the responsible sale of items such as flour and eggs that could potentially be used to cause distress to others.

Partnership Policing Chief Inspector Jane Easton said: "Our aim is to ensure that everyone can enjoy this period safely, without causing anyone else harm or distress.

"The community will see a more visible police presence across the borough, with increased patrols in residential areas, as well as at key times and locations, such as town centres and transport hubs, to provide reassurance and to deter and target anyone intent on committing crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We know spikes in crime and disorder can occur at this time of year so it is right that police work to mitigate against this, as well as informing the community of simple and practical steps they can take to keep themselves safe."

Those on Twitter will be able to follow @MPSHaringey tomorrow night, while officers work to tackle anti-social behaviour on this busy night.

Safer Neighbourhoods Teams will be patrolling the borough late into the night, as well as the usual 24/7 presence provided by other police units. If you have information about crime or disorder, please call the non-emergency police number 101, alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency dial 999.