PSNI tackles‘alcohol harm’

During the two night operation, on Friday and Saturday local police seized 143 items of alcohol that were consumed either illegally or by minors.

Four people were arrested and a further 45 young people were referred to the local Youth Diversion Officer.

Officers involved in the operation conducted dedicated anti-social behaviour and underage drinking patrols at locations across the District and implemented licensing and security checks at local pubs and clubs.

Area Commander Chief Inspector Darrin Jones said that it was important for them to get involved in the operation that will help create safer communities.

“Research has indicated that across the UK nearly 50 per cent of all violent crime is alcohol related,” he said.

“In order to help create safer communities we need to raise awareness of the harm that excessive alcohol consumption can have not only on the individual but also on society.

“As part of the UK wide Alcohol Harm initiative local officers were out on the streets on Friday and Saturday night, actively patrolling areas known as hotspots for underage or on street drinking and anti-social behaviour.

“Officers also sought to reduce the number of incidents of criminal behaviour that result from excessive drinking by enforcing all of the relevant legislation linked to the sale of alcohol.”

Chief Inspector Jones added, “We felt it was important to get involved in this ‘Alcohol Harm’ initiative as we are increasingly seeing people very intoxicated at the end of the night, often needing assistance from either police or paramedics.

“People need to be aware that drinking excessively can leave them extremely vulnerable. Alcohol can impair judgement and lead to unsafe decisions.”

Mr Jones said that the operation proves that police are dedicated in dealing with alcohol related crime.

“Some people may find themselves a victim of crime or even a perpetrator by becoming involved in situations they would never contemplate sober,” Mr Jones said.

“Local police are dedicated in tackling issues linked to excessive drinking and alcohol fuelled crime however, we also need individuals to work with us by drinking responsibly and behaving sensibly.”