This week officers Coventry wide have been carrying out 'Op Chino' which saw teams focus on issues that we know have a negative effect on our communities, alongside their normal duties. The day of neighbourhood activity included operations targeting anti-social behaviour on public transport, focusing on routes that have seen repeated activity. Officers also worked with trading standards to crack down on sales of counterfeit goods including cigarettes and alcohol. With trading standards teams, we accompanied underage youth into shops we had previous intel on to suggest they were selling age restricted goods to underage children. The youth we were with then attempted to purchase age restricted products. This lead to goods being seized and potential closure of shops further down the line.

Our officers have been diligently investigating numerous crime reports throughout the week. Each case has been carefully reviewed, with significant progress made in several investigations. Many crime reports have been resolved, ensuring that the investigative process is both thorough and expeditious. We are committed to delivering justice and maintaining public safety by bringing offenders to account and providing closure to victims.

Plain clothes operations have been in full swing this week within major shopping areas, leading to multiple arrests of repeat offenders. On the other end of the spectrum we have been patrolling areas mentioned in multiple PACT and community meetings we have been involved in this week where car crime has been an issue. Within these areas we have also been handing out crime prevention tools such as RFID signal blockers for car keys as well as window locks and alarms. 

We are coming towards the end of winter, and while we layer up to avoid the cold, let's not forget about layering up our home security.

Criminals will take advantage of insecure windows and propped open doors, even if it’s the back door. 

Keep you and your home safe this winter by following these useful tips:

  Make sure doors and windows are closed and locked. Even if you’re just popping out, lock up and secure your home.

  Consider installing window locks to prevent intruders from easily opening your windows.

  Consider installing a home security system with visible cameras and alarm systems to deter burglars.

  Keep your valuables out of sight. Close blinds or curtains to prevent prying eyes from scouting your belongings. Shutting the blinds will keep your house warmer.

  Give a spare key to a trusted neighbour or invest in a secure key lockbox.

  Hosting family or friends in your garden - don’t invite burglars to the party. Keep your side entrance, back door, or garden gate closed/locked.

  Storing away bikes, gardening equipment, and summer activities? Lock up and keep that garage door closed. It takes seconds for thieves to spot and take expensive tools/bikes/motor vehicles. Consider securing your valuables inside the garage or shed as well.

  For extra security keep porch doors locked, wheelie bins away from low fences or garages, and sheds secure.