Disorder patrols praised by top cops

A top cop has praised the effects of a multi-agency operation tackling disorder on the Metro.

Officers and Metro staff, along with Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, took part in Operation Carousel last week (February 20) which saw them carry out highvisibility patrols at a range of stations including South Shields and Simonside.

Chief Inspector Nicola Wearing carried out patrols with the South Shields Neighbourhood Team and chatted to passengers about their experiences as part of the crackdown.

And Chief Insp Wearing has warned any troublemakers that the operation will be reignited over the coming weeks.

“Anti-social behaviour can have a significant and detrimental effect on the communities we serve, and that’s what Operation Carousel was all about,” Chief Insp Wearing said. “The highly-visible operation saw us successfully deal with pockets of disorder alongside Nexus staff. We are delighted with the feedback we have received from the community since the operation, but will not rest on our laurels – and we’ll be looking to build on this fantastic partnership work over the coming weeks.”

Commissioner Kim McGuinness added: “These operations are about stopping anti-social behaviour in its tracks – all of which I saw when I went out on patrol. Those causing real trouble need to know they can’t just get away with it and we need to continue our work tackling the root causes that can lead to these behaviours so we can prevent them.”

Following the night of action, chief operating officer at Nexus Martin Kearney praised the “excellent” operation. He said: “I was able to join the patrols and saw the great work that is being done to provide community assurance on the network.”