Basingstoke officers carry out town centre patrols to target shoplifters and anti-social behaviour

Basingstoke officers conducted high-visibility patrols to target shoplifters and anti-social behaviour in the town centre this week.

Members of the Basingstoke Neighbourhoods Policing Team and Violent Crime Team patrolled central areas including Festival Place, The Malls and the Top of the Town on Tuesday 18 June.

The uniformed officers engaged with businesses, shop workers, security staff and members of the public to provide reassurance and assistance throughout the day.

As part of the patrols, the teams were approached in the town centre regarding a missing person report. Following a short, but fast-paced investigation, the man was located safe and well.

The team also responded to a concern for the welfare of a man near The Malls. The man was located and spoken with at the scene.

PC Charlotte Warhurst, Basingstoke town centre’s Local Bobby, said: “Our officers regularly conduct these high-visibility patrols so we can provide reassurance and engage with staff and members of the public.

“We visited a number of businesses in the local area and spoke with shop workers, managers and security staff throughout the day to provide support.

“Reducing crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre is a priority for the team. We work closely with partners to identify and deal robustly with those that commit crime in this area.”

PC Warhurst added: “When you’re on patrol, you can get called to a number of different reports throughout the day. We were made aware of a missing person in the town centre and the team quickly assembled to help locate the man a short while later.

“We then responded to a concern for the welfare of a man nearby.

“Our teams will continue to patrol the area throughout the summer, so if you see us out and about, please don’t hesitate to come over and speak with us about any concerns or issues you have.”