Tram security beefed up in war on yobs News
A TEAM of 50 PCSOs will join the ranks of a special Metrolink security force in a bid to stop yobs attacking the network.
Formed in 2015 to tackle crime on public transport, the Travelsafe unit is made up of police, special constables and security experts who patrol trams and buses.
A major recruitment drive is now under way to bolster its numbers after a brutal attack on a tram driver in Oldham became the latest in a series of anti-social behaviour incidents on the network.
Added to the 20 extra security staff promised by the operator to take over the running of Metrolink in July, it will boost designated security staff to more than 80.
But Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said parents and schools must also play their part to stop anti-social behaviour on our buses and trams.
He added: “We need to all work together to ensure that people can travel around Greater Manchester safely.
“We need schools and parents to ensure their young people are aware of the potential implications if they cause criminal damage. They could cause serious injury as well as distress for passengers. The Mayor of Greater Manchester has already made it clear that making the transport network safer is a priority. It is a priority for the police, for Transport for Greater Manchester and for local people.”
It comes as figures reveal there were on average three incidents a day on the network in January and February.
There are now guards on the Derker stop bridge in Oldham, from where yobs lobbed the rock which hit the driver. A high grille has also been placed beneath it to prevent missiles being thown on the tracks. Mounted police are patrolling the network, as well as extra security staff. Incognito Metrolink bosses have been out on the network at night.
Despite the boosted security, a tram on the Rochdale line was attacked by missile-lobbing yobs on Thursday evening, causing a broken window and delays.