THE number of arrests related to protests by the JustStopOil campaign group in Thurrock is now approaching 500 – with the cost of policing operations soaring towards the £ million mark for Essex Police.

Though it has been a quiet weekend to date, police are still keeping a presence across the borough in an effort to thwart protesters gaining access to fuel depots and other sites where they have previously struck.

Yesterday (Saturday, 16 April) police gave their latest update on the number of people arrested, saying: "We have now charged a total of 23 people in connection with incidents of trespass in Thurrock.

"We continue to respond to reports of criminality being reported at fuel sites in the district. 

"Within the last 24 hours, an additional 37 people have been arrested, taking the total number of arrests since the early hours of April 1 to 461. 

"Currently, there are no ongoing incidents in the district. However, we continue to have a presence in the area."

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan added: "We continue to work alongside the companies which have been affected by the actions of those who believe they are engaging in protest for the last 15 days.

"Security of those sites is paramount, and we remain in dialogue with the industry on how they can best protect their private property against trespass. This is a key element in the longer-term and partnership-wide response to these incidents. 

"The role of policing is not one of private security; we respond to incidents of criminality and – where those are reported – we will of course continue to respond appropriately, arrest people where we believe offences have been committed and charge those who we believe are responsible. 

"Our response demonstrates that if you come to Essex to take part in reckless and dangerous incidents, you will be arrested. 

"I would encourage anyone who may be preparing to take part in renewed disruption this Bank Holiday weekend to re-think your plans. Each time you do this sadly makes you one step closer to having a criminal record."

ACC Nolan added: "This is not how I envisaged a significant number of officers being deployed on this Easter Bank Holiday weekend. 

"Their first duty is to protect the good people of Essex whilst they enjoy days with family and friends across our county, whether that be on Southend seafront, at Clacton Pier, Epping Forest or simply shopping in Chelmsford High Street. 

"They would much rather be out among your communities, protecting you and catching criminals."