Operation Impact returns to Sunderland for the second time this year

Nine arrests made, three vehicles seized, two warrants executed, and more than 40 premises visited – as Operation Impact returns to Sunderland for the second time this year.

Last week, officers joined forces with partners including Sunderland City Council, the North East Regional Crime Unit (NEROCU), British Transport Police, Nexus, Sunderland’s Business Improvement District and the Salvation Army – focusing on Sunderland’s city centre and the east of the city, to carry out high-visibility activity with a focus on tackling serious criminality within the community.

The operation also responded to concerns of anti-social behaviour, drugs and vehicle related crime and the sale of illegal products in and around the city.

Across the day, nine arrests were made for offences such as, attempted grievous bodily harm, possession of a knife, theft, assault and interfering with a motor vehicle.

Two warrants were executed at addresses in the Borough Road and Azalea Terrace areas – with one uncovering an illegal air weapon.

Two stop and searches were carried out and six dispersal notices were issued. A further 13 people and vehicles were stopped and checked – with three vehicles being seized.

The council’s Enforcement Team visited a hefty 44 premises alongside Trading Standards on the lookout for illegal products being sold in the local community.

Uncovering more than 600 illegal vapes, 170 counterfeit goods, as well as illegal hand rolled tobacco and cigarettes.

Advice was also given to shop owners around licensing and trading standards related issues.

Activity elsewhere saw the knife arch make an appearance in two transport hubs across the day, while road safety vans were positioned across four areas of the city – recording more than 200 speeding offences.

The Community Engagement van was located on Market Square, addressing any issues members of the public may have about the local area.

Staff members from the force’s communications team also operated a pop-up station – showcasing the different crime reporting routes the Force has to offer.

The Force’s Mounted Section put their best hoof forward and patrolled the city centre – picking up a polo or two on their travels.

Area Commander for Sunderland, Chief Superintendent Mark Hall, reflected on the success of the operation: “The positive results from today’s day of action are a real testament to the officers and partner agencies who work tirelessly to ensure Sunderland is a safe place for people to live, work and visit.

“Operation Impact is all about addressing the issues that matter most to the people of our local communities.

“Our message is clear – our priority is ensuring we’re there when the public need us the most and we will do everything we can to achieve this.

“While our teams have been out on the streets of Sunderland today tackling crime in our communities – they have also provided reassurance to business owners and members of the public.

“This is just one example of the work our officers carry out on a daily basis, and our work does not stop here.

“I’d ask members of the public to continue to share vital information with us, your support and information really is invaluable to ensuring we’re putting our time and resources into what really matters the most to you.”

Anyone with information or concerns about crime in their neighbourhood is encouraged to contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media or by using the live chat or report form functions on the Force’s website.

Those who can’t contact the force online should call 101.

Find out more about the teams who are problem solvers, change-makers, and protectors at the heart of a community and how you can get involved: Become a neighbourhood officer - Northumbria Police