Armed officers to patrol key festive locations across Devon

Police in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset will be patrolling key locations and events over the festive period and the New Year with support from armed officers.

Officers will be visibly carrying long-armed weapons to help offer further security and reassurance during this busy time of the year, as well as having support from our dog unit.

Head of Alliance Operations, Chief Superintendent Jim Nye, said: “I want to reassure the public there is no increase in the threat level, nor is this in reaction to any specific threat within Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. This decision is to help offer reassurance to the public, and to offer a highly-visible level of protection to our public.

“The festive period naturally leads to significant events and creates crowded places. These resources are now available to our commanders across the alliance area, and they will be used across locations at times, and during events where the local teams feel that this extra support could be beneficial.

“We have also made sure that our dog unit are available to help support our officers and to undertake checks of areas; during this busy time we can see people leaving bags unattended in public area’s that could cause alarm, it is hoped that if this does happen, we have the ability to check these items are safe, quicker.

“Our message to the public is go about their day as normal, enjoy the festive period and stay safe. If anyone sees anything suspicious then tell. You can approach these officers directly as they are her to protect and serve our communities, you can also contact us on 101 or 999 in a case of an emergency. You can also contact the National Counter Terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321.”