Police chiefs join bobbies on beat

Senior cops joined street patrols around Canterbury for a highprofile police operation in the build-up to Christmas.

Chief constable of Kent Alan Pughsley and Ch Insp Mitchell Fox, the district commander for Canterbury, were out as part of a heavy police presence in the city centre last Thursday and over the weekend.

Two teenagers and a man were arrested for theft, knife and drugs offences.

Ch Insp Fox said: “Canterbury is one of the busiest places when it comes to our night-time economy, and we want to make sure those who head out in the evenings do so responsibly and safely.

“Senior officers regularly join patrols across the county, and on Thursday evening these officers, including the chief constable of Kent, joined patrols to support keeping Canterbury a safe place to live, work and visit.

“Working with our partners and local community stakeholders, we will continue to carry out patrols and use a variety of tactics to target those who do not share the festive cheer and instead want to commit offences and cause a nuisance.

“I welcome the support of the public and ask that should they have any information which we can act upon to contact us.”

On Thursday evening, a 20-year-old man from Canterbury was arrested on suspicion of shoplifting and assisting an offender.

He has been released on police bail until January 6.

A 17-year-old boy from Canterbury was arrested on suspicion of possessing cannabis with intent to supply. He has been released on bail pending further enquiries until January 14.

A second 17-year-old boy from Canterbury was arrested on suspicion of having a bladed article and possession with intent to supply cannabis. He has been released on police bail until January 12.