Message for the public ahead of the weekend
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Ahead of the weekend, Merseyside Police would like to reassure the public that high visibility patrols will be present in busy areas to listen to any concerns and help keep people safe.
With England playing their second game in the Euro 2020 championships and good weather expected, police are aware that bars and outdoor areas will be busier than usual. The message is clear: anti-social or criminal behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Under Section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, officers will have extra powers to disperse anyone committing anti-social behaviour in parts of Liverpool City Centre.
The dispersal zone will be in operation between 3pm today (Friday 18 June and 10am on Sunday 20 June, in the area bounded by the River Mersey, St Nicholas Place, Chapel Street, Thithebarn Street, Great Crosshall Street, Byrom Street, William Brown Street, Lime Street, Renshaw Street, Berry Street, Great Georges Street, St James Place, Stanhope Street and Mariners Wharf.
Following a number of recent criminal acts of violence across Merseyside, knife arches will also be used at busy locations and train stations to help prevent similar incidents.
Chief Inspector Matthew Moscrop said: "While the vast majority of get-togethers go smoothly and safely, over the last fortnight we've seen pockets of anti-social behaviour, as well as isolated incidents of violence, hate crime, and people carrying knives.
"This weekend, preventing this sort of behaviour will be at the forefront of officers' minds, and officers in uniform and in plain clothes will be on the lookout for anyone acting suspiciously or in a way that could bring harm or distress to others.
"We don't want to spoil anyone's fun, but we must do all we can to help prevent further incidents which could spoil the long-awaited summer for the majority.
"If you're thinking of carrying a knife or going out to cause problems - think again. You could end up in court, be seriously injured or could have to live with the consequences for the rest of your life. It isn’t worth the risk.
"We’re working alongside the British Transport Police at railway stations, so you might see knife arches being used to help us identify anyone who is carrying one. If you do see this, feel free to ask us about it, and don’t be alarmed – it’s just another way we try to prevent problems from happening.
“As a force we have seen a decrease in reports of knife crime over the past two years, but we must do all we can do prevent further incidents. If you see suspicious behaviour, please report it via our website or social media channels.
"We are reminding everyone to look after each other. Anyone wanting to enjoy the football may need to plan ahead and think about where they’re watching the games and how they’re getting home. If you’re planning on having a drink while you’re watching, leave your car at home and take a taxi or public transport. Don’t risk your life and those of others by drink driving.
“Finally, but importantly, we want everyone to remember that Covid-19 still poses a risk to public health and there are still some restrictions in place. These include no more than 30 people together outdoors, no more than six people or two households together indoors, social distancing and wearing a mask when indoors."
Report any concerns to us via @MerPolCC on Twitter, by calling 101, or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.