A new policing tactic to disrupt a range of criminality, like terrorism, was launched yesterday in Sheffield City Centre.
Project Servator involves the unpredictable deployment of both highly visible and plain-clothed officers, supported by other resources such as dogs, horses and live CCTV.
The tactic has been introduced after a successful trial period in the city centre in mid-July this year.
Inspector Daniel Garside, from South Yorkshire Police, said: “Over the coming weeks, we are expecting Sheffield city centre to be increasingly busy with shoppers and visitors.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy their time in the city centre, while staying safe, and that is why we will be delivering Project Servator patrols on a regular basis in the run up to Christmas.”
Project Servator was pioneered by the City of London Police in 2014 and is already active in various parts of the UK.
The launch of the project in Sheffield comes as the Christmas Markets officially begin.
Inspector Garside said: “Working with the community is a vital part of making it difficult for criminals to operate successfully, and you can help keep your community safe this Christmas by reporting anything that doesn’t feel right.”
South Yorkshire Police worked with Sheffield BID over the course of the trial period and are now rolling out additional training through the BID to improve people’s awareness of suspicious behaviour.
Sheffield City Council have also helped the police and supported Project Servator.
Coun Richard Williams, Chair of Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee, said: “I’m really pleased to see the launch of Project Servator in Sheffield and fully support it as an effective way to combat crime and anti-social behaviour.
“I look forward to seeing it operating here supporting people to feel safe and comfortable when out and about in our city.”
The police are encouraging the public to be aware of their surroundings when out and about and to report anything that doesn’t feel right immediately.
