A two-week safety campaign focusing on keeping young people and their possessions safe, has been launched in Croydon to coincide with the start of the new school year.

The operation, that begins today, will see extra patrols by uniformed and plain-clothed officers before and after school.

Police will be at busy transport hubs and routes across the borough to help deter and prevent crimes from happening. Officers will also be talking to young people and offering advice on how to travel safely.

The campaign is being led by Croydon police, alongside colleagues from Croydon's Safer Transport Team and the British Transport Police. It is also being supported by the Croydon Headteachers' Association.

Officers involved will attend daily operational briefings ahead of afternoon patrols at Delta Point in the town centre, that will also be attended by council enforcement officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Baxter said: "A new school year often means new, expensive equipment and, for many, new travel routes using public transport on their own for the first time.

" Whilst we have seen a reduction so far this year in robbery, from experience, there can be an increase at the beginning of September, which we are keen to prevent.

"Those starting at new schools and with new phones can take some simple steps to help prevent becoming a victim of crime and having their property stolen. Be familiar with your journey and keep your valuables out of sight when in public."

Maureen Martin, chairwoman of the Croydon Headteachers Association and Headteacher at Coloma Convent Girls' School said: "The Croydon Head Teachers' Association are pleased to be working in partnership with the local police as the pupils of the borough return to school.

"The start of the new school academic year with pupils old and new, is an exciting and important time for us all and we will want it to go smoothly."

 

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