Multiple arrests as Torquay anti-social behaviour operation reaches midway point

Devon & Cornwall Police’s period of intensification around anti-social behaviour in Torquay town centre has resulted in 33 arrests in the first 11 days leading up to 31 March.

Operation Loki is a four-week period of increased activity by Devon & Cornwall Police in central Torquay where residents and businesses have become increasingly concerned about the use of illegal drugs, alcohol, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. The extra patrols have specifically focussed on Factory Row, Castle Circus, Fleet Walk and Melville Street.

Torquay was the first area in Devon and Cornwall to begin Operation Loki on 13 March, with subsequent areas such as Exeter, Barnstaple, Plymouth and Penzance following later in March, April and May.

A significant proportion of arrests have been for drugs and shoplifting offenses with six arrests connected to the ongoing issue of moped thefts in the area. Other arrests range from driving offenses and theft to prison recall and warrant breaches.

As part of the operation, officers have visited over 100 retail premises to speak to owners as well as conducting licensing checks.

An engagement van along with officers has been stationed each day in different areas of the town centre, with officers listening to the views of local people to better understand their concerns and give advice.

Acting Chief Superintendent Ed Wright, South Devon Commander, said: “It has been great to see the positive reaction of businesses and the public to Operation Loki so far. The additional patrols have produced some excellent results, in particular catching moped thieves and shoplifters in the act, something we know residents have been concerned about for some time.

“Operation Loki is about listening to the residents about their concerns and making sure we are tackling the issues that mean the most to them going forward.”

Operation Loki will be continuing for another two weeks in Torquay, including a pop-up police station in the town centre scheduled for use in April.