The day started with an operation briefing attended by 8 personnel, including security teams from major town centre retailers like M&S, Primark, JD Sports, and River Island.

Croydon BID Street Rangers were also out in force, collaborating with the police and Change Grow Live (CGL) outreach teams.

A total of 26 Metropolitan Police officers were deployed, including 18 Street Duty Officers, 8 Town Centre Officers, and Safer Transport Officers who focused on key transport hubs throughout the day. Patrolling took place between 11:30am and 8pm, ensuring visibility during peak shopping hours.

The day’s focus included combating retail theft, general anti-social behaviour (ASB), and enforcing the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) regarding street drinking. Officers also provided support to the ongoing Back-to-School operation, monitoring the town centre in the afternoon to prevent crimes, such a street robbery, which are associated with the start of the school year.

During the operation, officers conducted 17 stop and searches, resulting in several key outcomes, including:

• 4 arrests for shoplifting, possession of Class A drugs, possession of a bladed article, and cannabis-related offenses.
• 6 PSPO enforcements near M&S, targeting street drinkers and the removal of alcohol.
• Multiple stop and searches leading to 2 Penalty Notices for Disorder (PNDs) and the confiscation of 15 snap bags of cannabis, reinforcing efforts to reduce drug-related activity.

The operation also saw Change Grow Live (CGL) outreach teams engaging with vulnerable individuals in known hotspots, including rough sleepers and street drinkers. Throughout the day, they interacted with 21 individuals, providing support services, assessments and encouraging them to attend follow-up sessions for further assistance.

In a related safety initiative, Live Facial Recognition (LRF) technology was deployed outside East Croydon Station, targeting key concerns around town centre safety. This operation led to six arrests for serious offences, including breaches of sexual harm prevention orders, robbery, and criminal damage.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy, with more operations planned in the coming months as Croydon BID and its partners remain dedicated to maintaining a safe, welcoming town centre.

For more information on Croydon BID’s ongoing initiatives, visit: www.croydonbid.com/business/resolve.