Mass Police Blitz Cracks Down on Crime in Barnham and Chichester
Operation Parkside Hits the Streets
Police joined forces with councils, NHS, rail services, and other partners for a full day crackdown on Monday, 23 September. Dubbed Operation Parkside, the mission targeted serious violence and anti-social behaviour in Barnham and Chichester. The dragnet focused on train stations, engaging with locals, businesses, and youths to tighten community ties and stamp out trouble.
Crime Surge Sparks Tough Response
Summer saw a spike in crime across the rail network and mounting worries over youth-related antisocial acts in Barnham and nearby Yapton. This prompted Operation Precinct earlier in the year, now joined by Parkside to show Sussex Police’s zero-tolerance stance.
“We take a zero-tolerance approach to crime and disorder in our communities,” said Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones, District Commander for Chichester and Arun.
Community Engagement at the Forefront
Chief Inspector Keating-Jones praised the day’s success: “We spoke with residents, commuters, school children, and businesses, providing reassurance and gathering vital intel to catch offenders.”
The focus on community involvement is key, he stressed: “It helps identify criminal activity and hold offenders accountable.”
More Multi-Agency Crackdowns to Come
The operation is far from a one-off. Sussex Police plan similar multi-agency action days across West Sussex rail hubs to tackle violence, antisocial behaviour, and all forms of crime.
Matt Cook, Safer West Sussex Partnership Chair and Deputy Chief Fire Officer, backed the initiative: “Local agencies uniting to combat unacceptable crime linked to the rail network is exactly what’s needed.”
Residents urged to report sightings of crime or antisocial behaviour to 101, or in emergencies dial 999. Sussex Police’s online reporting service is also open for tips.
