Sussex Police Crack Down on Crime with New Crawley Safety Schemes
Sussex Police have launched a bold new bid to boost community safety in Crawley. Teaming up with local partners, they’ve rolled out fresh initiatives aimed at deterring crime and pumping up police presence right in the heart of town.
‘Engagement Pod’ and Stronger, Safer Crawley Campaign
Over two busy days, the Crawley Neighbourhood Policing Teams set up an ‘engagement pod’ on the High Street. This eye-catching hub is part of the ‘Stronger, Safer, Crawley’ drive. It’s designed to ramp up police visibility, acting as both a crime deterrent and a base for cracking down on serious organised crime in the town centre.
Major Operation Targets Illegal Tobacco and Drugs
The crackdown kicked into high gear on 26 January with a major operation during Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action. Sussex Police joined forces with Trading Standards, HM Revenue & Customs, the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), Crawley Borough Council, and specialist search dogs.
Seven premises were raided for illegal tobacco, counterfeit vapes, and other dodgy goods. The haul included thousands of pounds’ worth of illicit cigarettes, suspected fraudulently traded items, illegally imported stock, and even Class A and B drugs were seized.
Community Pod Opens Doors to Public
On 31 January, the engagement pod welcomed residents and partners to connect directly with officers and council staff. It gave locals a rare chance to raise concerns and get advice on staying safe.
Superintendent Nick Dias said: “The multi-functional use of the pod is perfect for what we wanted.”
“Residents should be able to go to the pod and see a face if they have any questions. It won’t just be Sussex Police who are there for answers, but also representatives from our partners.”
“The day of action with Trading Standards was a fantastic result and shows our commitment to keeping shoppers safe with legal products.”
Local Leaders Back the Effort
West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member Duncan Crow praised the initiative. “As a Crawley resident and elected member, I’m pleased to support the Safer Stronger Crawley programme running since November 2023,” he said.
“The coordinated work between the County Council, Crawley Borough Council, the Probation Service, and Sussex Police shows the power of partnership. I look forward to seeing the positive impact Safer Stronger Crawley brings in the coming months.”
Sussex is stepping up the fight against crime, and Crawley residents are set to feel safer on their streets.
