Police aim to knock robbers off track (From Hillingdon Times)

Police aim to knock robbers off track

9:13am Friday 25th March 2005

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ROBBERS on trains in Hillingdon are being targeted in a massive police crackdown. In an unprecedented operation across London, four police forces are pooling resources to tackle robbers operating on the capital's transport system.

British Transport Police, and the Met, as well as City of London and Surrey Police are involved in the 15-day initiative code-named Operation Hastings.

The operation, which started last week, saw 49 arrests in the first two days, and more than 300 people had their names checked against the Police National Computer. British Transport Police deputy chief constable Andy Trotter, said: "Robberies are a real problem for London. They are very much part of the yob culture which causes many passengers stress and anxiety. There is a spectrum of anti-social behaviour that extends from alcohol-fuelled loutish behaviour through to robberies and assaults on rail staff and passengers."

More than 300 police officers are taking part in the operation, with the aim of reducing, disrupting and detecting robberies on the rail and Underground systems, mainly in London. Hillingdon has been chosen as one of the areas to target, with high profile patrols and drugs sniffer dogs taking part.

Another tactic being used is partnership working with rail companies, as police say about 80 per cent of those committing crime do not buy train tickets.

DCC Andy Trotter added: "Tackling robberies on the rail system is a priority. These crimes are being committed mainly by young people. Young people are the victims too.

"Robberies are London's shame and we need London communities to fight back, to give us information on who is involved, and to help make our city's transport system much safer."

If anyone has any information about robbery or other crimes on the transport system call British Transport Police 0800 405040

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