Police in Exeter thank the public in the run up to Christmas

Police officers in Exeter have thanked the public for their support in the run up to the festive period.

The busy Christmas market, which ran for a month in the Cathedral Green area, attracts bumper crowds of visitors and the local Neighbourhood Police Team have been kept busy ensuring the safety of the public in the city.

As well as enhanced patrols, officers have been carrying out covert shoplifting operations in hotspots to catch any opportunistic thieves. Several arrests took place in November and December and police will continue to keep a close eye on daytime visitors, as well as those enjoying a festive night out in Exeter. Motorists were also advised to take care and not leave Christmas shopping or presents on display which may tempt criminals.   

Inspector Simon Arliss, Exeter Sector Inspector, said: “Exeter is very busy at this time of year and many people come into the city to visit the Christmas market, as well as shopping trips and meeting up with friends for a meal or a few drinks. The vast majority of visitors behave well, have a good experience and don’t need our help in any way. We work hard to keep levels of anti-social behaviour to a minimum and are supported by partners, as well as police volunteers such as Special Constables.”    

The Devon & Cornwall force Safer Christmas campaign is aimed at helping to reduce the cost and blight of theft on our communities. Police want people to know that Exeter and other areas are open for business but closed for crime.

Police work closely with Community Safety partners such as the council who have a state-of-the-art CCTV suite to monitor shoppers and keep visitors safe. Police also have the support of groups such as the Exeter Street Pastors who help vulnerable people on a night out and offer assistance to those who need extra support.

For more information about the Devon & Cornwall Police campaigns and initiatives please visit the website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk

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