Extra police patrols arrive in Walsall amid ‘intense’ police operation to crackdown on crime - here’s why

West Midlands Police say their officers will be executing warrants, combating retail crime, targeting dangerous drivers and tackling anti-social behaviour as Operation Advance returns to Walsall today (October 14).

A spokesperson for the forced explained: “Extra police resources will be in place across the borough during the day of intensified activity for #OpAdvance as we deliver 24 hours of intensive policing - focussing on the issues that matter to you.

“#Op Advance is a force-wide operation which rotates across areas within the West Midlands and this month its Walsall's turn.”

WMP said that activity has already started, with officers heading out to arrest suspects wanted for a range of offences.

Later on in the day, WMP teams will be targeting organised and violent crime, road safety, anti-social behaviour and business crime.

A WMP spokesperson said: “Our existing Walsall teams will be bolstered with specialist officers and staff from other departments to further act on issues impacting residents and businesses.

“We'll also be working alongside our partners in the community and engaging with residents and visitors to the town.”

‘24 hours of intensive police operations’

Chief Inspector Lee Wiggan, who is leading Op Advance in Walsall, said: “Operation Advance sees staff and officers from every police department locally and across the force working together with partners to deliver 24 hours of intensive police operations.

“After months of planning, we will be using all of those resources as an opportunity to tackle issues in the borough that matter most to you.

"It's important we're at the heart of our communities so we can act.

“If you see us out and about feel free to come and chat to us and tell us about any issues concerning you.

"Walsall is a great place to live, work and visit and we're committed to working alongside our partners to maintain this."