Police warn off Eid troublemakers

11:22am Thursday 5th January 2006

MORE than 300 police officers will be patrolling the streets of Southall next week to ensure that Eid celebrations are not ruined by antisocial behaviour and traffic congestion.

The officers will be on hand to stop antisocial behaviour from ruining next week's Muslim festival, Eid-Ul-Ahha, which is expected to take place between Monday and Wednesday.

And before the celebrations, which marks the end of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Ealing Police are distributing more than 7,000 leaflets to homes in and around Southall Broadway, informing residents of the traffic restrictions which will be in force from 5.30pm on each day of the event.

Borough Commander Colette Paul, of Ealing Borough Police, is responsible for the policing operation during the celebrations. She said: "There are sometimes a few people who use these events to behave in an antisocial manner, such as driving dangerously or behaving in a disorderly way. This type of behaviour is unacceptable "We believe our visible police presence will deter such behaviour and, if necessary, allow us to deal with offenders swiftly.

"Local community representatives are fully supportive of our policing strategy to combat unacceptable behaviour, which will allow the celebrations on Eid-ul-Adha to pass without incident."

She added: "I would encourage people who intend to meet up with family and friends to celebrate the Eid-ul-Adha in the Southall area to use public transport, which will help us minimise congestion in the area.

"I would urge anyone who resides within the restricted traffic zone and plans to use their vehicle during these times to carry proof of address in their vehicles.

"I also advise businesses in the restricted area to inform staff of the traffic restrictions and if possible, limit deliveries during this time."