With the festive season well and truly upon us more people use the railway in the run-up to Christmas, officers from British Transport Police (BTP) will be out in force on the London Underground, DLR and the national rail network around the capital in the coming days to reassure passengers and tackle any problematic behaviour.
This week officers will be deployed across London and surrounding areas to specifically tackle problematic behaviour and reassure passengers travelling on services around London and in and out to the commuter belt.
The patrols form part of a greater commitment from British Transport Police to tackle anti-social behaviour and violence on the rail network.
Superintendent Richard Moffatt added: “We will be increasing patrols during the evening until the last trains. We anticipate that Thursday and Friday this week 18 and 19 December – will be the busiest on the rail network. Our officers will be helping passengers with , advise on how they can keep themselves and all their belongings safe while they travel.
Supt Moffatt said: “We want people to enjoy themselves and take part in celebrations, but officers will not tolerate drunken or aggressive behaviour on trains and at stations. Passengers should take a responsible approach with alcohol and travel.”
“Thankfully violent crime is rare on the railway, but where unacceptable behaviour is identified; our officers will intervene, taking robust action to protect members of the public and rail staff.
“Our officers are determined to keep the railway safe, and we work closely with colleagues in the rail industry to bring offenders to justice.
“Our main advice to keep yourselves safe is to pre-plan your journey, make sure you know when your last train leaves, take care and get home safely.”