THE outcome of a police operation in Tilbury has been revealed, with local officers and residents declaring it a success.

Last week Thurrock Nub News reported on the operation, which was launched after much public concern about anti-social behaviour and criminality in the town.

Now police have revealed the operation led to 12 arrests, eight vehicle seizures, and the recovery of five stolen motorbikes and mopeds in ten days.

Thurrock Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) have been conducting high-visibility patrols of anti-social behaviour hotspots, making proactive traffic stops and engaging with local residents and businesses.

Arrests have been made for offences including sexual assault, drug possession, violence, theft and shoplifting.

The team have carried out 13 stop searches which have led to the seizure of drugs and catapults, and completed weapons sweeps in a number of public areas.

A number of vehicles were seized in the operation, inclusing these motorbikes.

Live facial recognition has been used to identify potential outstanding offenders, three children have been safeguarded, and alcohol seizures have been made for breaches of the Public Space Protection Order.

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The operation was established in response to local concerns about persistent nuisance behaviour, particularly involving disruptive youths and the anti-social use of motorbikes.

Thurrock's District Commander, Chief Inspector Danny Barnes, said: "I've made it clear from the outset that tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority for me, and this operation is just the start of that commitment.

Sergeant Sadik Miah talks to a local shop owner.

"Op Frostbite is having an impact in Tilbury - we're making arrests and sending a clear message to anyone who thinks they can cause trouble.

"My officers are out on the streets, talking to the residents and business owners and, so far, the feedback has been very positive. People are noticing the difference. However, I recognise the issues here affect other communities too.

"We can't be everywhere all the time, and we won't always get it right, but what the public can expect is that we will listen, we will respond, and we will keep coming back to the areas that need us most.

"I will continue to direct my officers to maintain a visible presence in hotspot areas across the district, and when problems are reported to us, we will take action."

The operation was warmly welcomed by local people, including a 40 year-long town resident:-

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