North Yorkshire Police have given an update on their new operation to tackle a spike in anti-social behaviour in Ripon and are already seeing “positive results.”

The force revealed plans for a new operation last week after a number of street robberies, assaults and other criminality in the city.

And it appears the plan is taking effect as there was a significant reduction in incidents over the weekend, despite half term usually being a busy period for anti-social behaviour.

Inspector Alex Langley of North Yorkshire Police said:

“The public are our eyes and ears and we received a small number of reports of issues over the weekend which enabled us to respond and deal with each quickly and effectively. Our message to our communities is please keep reporting matters and intelligence to us and we will take the necessary actions – thank you!

“We also saw a reduction in the number of young people out on the streets across the weekend and would like to thank those parents and guardians who continue to support their young people and reinforce that stay home, stay safe message.”

The new operation from North Yorkshire Police was put in place at the end of last month and has already seen an increase in patrols from various policing teams.

Inspector Langley added:

“We are actively patrolling. The dedicated operation has seen an increased police presence in and around the city, some more visible than others, and extra teams drafted in to help deter offenders, prevent crime and we continue to enforce where necessary.

“I’d like to thank our communities who continue to follow the lockdown rules and are playing their part in keeping everybody and the community safe. We will provide updates to our ongoing investigations as and when we can.”

North Yorkshire Police have urged residents to report matters via 101 or 999 if urgent, or by using Crimestoppers.

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