Bexley Police Launch New Unit to Tackle Rising Anti-Social Behaviour

Bexley police have established a new unit of neighbourhood officers to address a reported increase in anti-social behaviour across the borough. The move follows concerns raised by residents and local businesses about aggressive and disrespectful conduct.

Louie French, the Conservative MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, met with Superintendent Chris Jones and local neighbourhood teams to discuss solutions for tackling anti-social behaviour and broader crime issues. Mr French highlighted instances of intimidating behaviour by groups of teenagers, which he stated can harm businesses and damage communities, even if perpetrated by a minority.

Police Response and Reporting

The newly formed unit of neighbourhood officers is tasked with patrolling known anti-social behaviour hotspots and providing a swift response to reported incidents. The police are also working to address issues such as illegal e-bikes, which are often modified to travel at unsafe speeds and are linked to other criminal activities.

Mr French emphasised the importance of residents reporting all incidents, stating that while social media can alert others, only official police reports enable officers to apprehend offenders, gather intelligence, and allocate resources effectively. He urged residents to report threatening, offensive, or abusive behaviour, drug dealing, vandalism, vehicle theft, and dangerous driving.

For immediate threats or danger, residents should call 999. For non-emergency situations, the public can contact 101. Bexley's neighbourhood teams will act on these reports, and Mr French indicated that individual reports can significantly aid their efforts.

Criticism of Police Funding

In parallel with local efforts, Mr French has voiced criticism in Parliament regarding Sadiq Khan's policing policies. He stated that over £260 million is being cut from the Metropolitan Police under Labour's leadership. According to Mr French, these cuts have led to a reduction in police numbers, the disbandment of specialist teams, and the closure of facilities such as the front counter at Bexleyheath Police Station.

Mr French argued that accurate crime statistics, bolstered by thorough reporting from all incidents, are necessary to secure adequate funding for local policing and to ensure that crime issues are properly addressed. He concluded by encouraging continued community involvement in reporting issues to maintain Bexley's status as a safe borough.