Multi-agency crackdown targets crime across Chester

A large-scale police operation in Chester has led to eight arrests and a series of enforcement actions as officers targeted criminal activity across the city.

On Wednesday 5 March, Cheshire Police’s Chester Local Policing Unit worked alongside multiple agencies to carry out a high-profile day of action.

The initiative aimed to disrupt crime, protect vulnerable people, and provide reassurance to residents and businesses.

Throughout the day, passive drugs dogs were deployed in the city centre, and the British Transport Police’s County Lines Task Force operated at Chester Railway Station to monitor for drug-related activity.

The Roads and Crime Unit, alongside the Motorcycle Unit, focused on illegal e-bike use and other road offences, while licensing checks were conducted on taxis and shops.

The Sex Offender Management Unit also carried out visits to ensure compliance with legal restrictions, and officers executed a warrant at an address in Blacon.

Meanwhile, the Underwater Search Unit conducted searches in the canal near Cow Lane bridge.

The Safer Streets Bus was stationed at Countess of Chester Country Park to engage with the public and gather residents’ views.

The operation resulted in:

• Eight arrests, including for theft of a motor vehicle, disqualified driving, and immigration offences
• 14 Traffic Offence Reports issued
• Three vehicle seizures
• Three taxi drivers given advisory notices
• 25 stop searches conducted as part of the passive drug dog operation

Inspector James Wilson, of Chester Local Policing Unit, said: “Today’s operation has produced some great results.

“Throughout the day we used a whole host of tactics to disrupt criminal activity in Chester, as well as working with partners, but it is important to note that we use these regularly as part of our everyday policing tactics.

“As well as targeting criminality, the day was also about reassuring the public that we are proactively tackling those who are up to no good and we’ll continue to run operations like this to support the communities we serve.”

He encouraged residents to report any concerns, adding: “If you have any information about criminal activity in your community, please contact Cheshire Police online or call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.”