Police join national robbery campaign

Northamptonshire Police has today joined a national operation targeting robbery.

The week-long initiative called Op Calibre is a national campaign aimed at cracking down on personal robbery.

Throughout the week there will be focus on the different strands of education, engagement, prevention and enforcement, all of which are important in playing our part to reduce personal robbery.

Detective Inspector Stuart Nichols, is taking charge of the week of action. He said: “Reducing robbery is a key element in tackling violence. We’re working day and night to protect communities and our message to those who think it is ok to commit a robbery and inflict violence is clear: we will not tolerate this.  

“We know criminals look for easy opportunities and the threats of violence used make robbery particularly traumatic and can have a devastating impact on victims.”

Neighbourhood Policing Teams will also be joining the operation, getting out and about with the Beat Bus and speaking to people, giving them advice about how to keep safe.

Officers will also be conducting patrols of the county’s road network, conducting disruption visits and searching for offenders wanted on recall for robbery offences.

DI Nichols added: “We know that we cannot arrest our way out of this problem. There is a need to deliver a multi-faceted response which is why this week of action sees engagement with schools and other partners.

“Finally, there are several tips you can do to reduce the chances of you becoming a victim, included below. I encourage everyone to follow these and share them with family and friends. If in the unfortunate circumstances you are a victim of robbery, report it to the police or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

 

Personal Robbery Safety Tips:

• Anyone can become a victim of robbery, make sure you do all you can to protect yourself from becoming a victim
• You are less likely to be targeted if you look confident. Move with purpose and try to be aware of your surroundings
• Plan your route and think about what to take with you, especially if you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets, walkways and paths which are more likely to be covered by CCTV. Only take licensed taxis or minicabs booked by phone or a mobile phone app
• Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so look around you
• It’s a good idea to scan the area around ATMs before you use them. Be aware of anyone standing close by and always check the machine to see if it’s been tampered with before you use it
• If you’re out and about Christmas shopping, be alert to suspicious behaviour, particularly if you’re carrying high value goods
• Finally – and this is so important to remember – if you’re threatened with violence, don’t risk your personal safety. Property can be replaced, you can’t