Focused on cutting crime, Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has backed West Mercia Police with the resources it needs to complete more than 100 investigations to tackle serious violence.
Operation Swordfish, which is the force’s targeted response to tackling serious violence activity, including child sexual exploitation (CSE), organised crime and youth knife crime, received £18,500 from the PCC.
This investment has supported West Mercia Police to achieve significant results:
- 120 investigations and operations have been supported or generated.
- 106 intelligence reports generated.
- Experimental research has identified drug sales linked to organised crime groups and counterfeit money sales.
- Safeguarding of 31 children.
PCC John Campion said: “As PCC, I am committed to stamping out serious violence at the root cause as these types of crimes have no place within our society.
“It is sadly the case that young people are becoming the victims of serious violence as they are exploited and extorted by criminals. This is why it’s it vital that preventative activity is undertaken to ensure young people are protected and communities feel safer.
“I am encouraged by the results of Op Swordfish, and I will continue to provide investment to West Mercia Police by providing the tools and resources they need to disrupt this violent activity.”
Detective Superintendent Tony Garner, head of intelligence, said: “Operation Swordfish reinforces our commitment to help prevent children and young people becoming victims of serious violence.
“We welcome the funding from our police and crime commissioner to support this work and safeguard even more people.”
