Arrests and stop searches carried out in Blackburn in operation tackling antisocial behaviour

A proactive operation tackling antisocial behaviour in Blackburn Town Centre has seen officers make arrests and carry out dozens of stop searches in three weeks, since the launch of Operation Nox.

Operation Nox has seen an increased police presence on the streets of Blackburn, with officers from neighbourhood policing and response teams working alongside our mounted branch, and with several of our partners from across the town, including the bus station, cathedral, and surrounding streets.

This is in response to reports of antisocial behaviour, including fireworks being set off, which understandably left members of the public and local businesses feeling concerned and upset. The operation was launched to reassure the public that we are listening to your concerns, and we are acting on the information you are giving us.

Since Op Nox launched in mid-October, police have:

Made 9 arrests

Stopped and searched 54 people

Stopped a number of young people taking part in antisocial behaviour, and returned them home to their guardians

Identified and safeguarded a number of young and vulnerable people who may be at risk in the town centre

Chief Inspector Patrick Worden, the local policing chief inspector for Blackburn with Darwen, said: “The increased policing activity in Blackburn town centre over recent weeks reflects our determination to tackle the issues that matter most to local people.

“The number of arrests and proactive interventions carried out by officers demonstrates that we will not tolerate criminality or anti-social behaviour in our town centre. We are committed to identifying those responsible, bringing offenders to justice, and ensuring Blackburn remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

“We want residents, businesses, and visitors to feel confident that Blackburn town centre is a place where they can go about their daily lives without fear of crime or disorder. We will also be continuing our patrols of the town centre throughout November and in the run up to the Christmas period. If you witness anti-social behaviour or criminal activity, please report it to us via 101, or 999 if an immediate police response is required.”

Op Centurion is a county-wide crackdown on anti-social behaviour, led by Lancashire Constabulary and backed by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, delivering his priority of getting tough on anti-social behaviour, with the support of our partners.