Officers in Chester take part in multi-agency operation

A multi-agency operation has taken place in Chester to ensure shops, restaurants, takeaways and pubs were complying with regulations.

The operation took place on Wednesday 16 July focusing on Brook Street, Chester. This involved units from across the force, including Chester Beat Team, Western Exploitation Team, Foreign National Offender Officers, and the Bike Unit, along with HMRC, Trading Standards, Immigration, DWP, Cheshire Fire and Rescue, plus Local Authority Food Hygiene and Parking Services.

A total of 16 premises, including shops, restaurants and public houses, were visited as part of the operation, with all the agencies carrying out inspections.

This resulted in a number of illegal cigarettes and vapes being seized and immigration statuses being checked. Follow-up visits will be undertaken by partner agencies.

While the visits were taking place, the Bike Unit carried out a number of stop checks and enforcement activity in relation to delivery drivers and riders in the area to ensure they were observing regulations. Two TORs (Traffic Offence Reports) were issued.

Local Authority Parking Services also deployed to enforce the parking restrictions in the street. 

The work falls under the Constabulary’s Safer Streets Summer initiative, which runs from June until September.

The national initiative is part of ongoing neighbourhood policing work, with officers increasing their presence in hotspot areas and working with partner agencies to keep town centres across the county safe.

Inspector James Wilson said:

“The presence of all the agencies working together had a significant disruptive effect and sent out a clear message to anyone engaged in crime that Cheshire Police works with a range of agencies to target any criminality or failure to follow regulations.

“It also provided an opportunity for officers to build relationships with other agencies, as well as the businesses in the area.

“We are committed to ensuring Chester continues to be a safe place for everyone. By working together we are able to go further in tackling the issues that matter the most to our communities and ensure the city remains a safe place for everyone who lives, works and visits here.”