Portsmouth police launch clampdown on Christmas criminals and yobs

Officers have launched the initiative across city shopping hubs in a bid to combat retail crime and anti-social behaviour in busy precincts during the holidays.

Patrols will take place across Cosham High Street, Ocean Retail Park, Commercial Road and the roads surrounding it, Fratton Road, London Road, Palmerston Road, Osborne Road and Albert Road as part of Operation Fragrant.

The news comes as non-essential shops reopen their doors again today after a month of lockdown.

Portsmouth Central’s Acting Sergeant Lander said: ‘With the good news of non-essential shops re-opening across Portsmouth today, we understand that our shopping areas across the city will be busy in the lead up to Christmas.

‘We feel it is vital that local shoppers choose to come to Portsmouth to support local traders, especially in the run up to Christmas. Making shoppers feel safe is key to the success of retailers in the city and I’m pleased that Operation Fragrant will help to give people that re-assurance.

‘We will have dedicated officers patrolling shopping areas each day to offer reassurance to our communities and deter criminals from these areas.’

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Patrols will be supported officers from across the force, including volunteer special constables.

Residents with any worries about crime over Christmas are urged to speak to patrolling officers or call 101.

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