Project Kraken is a national initiative to get more people reporting incidents they see near the coast that make them suspicious. Tip offs as small as a person not wearing suitable clothes or a boat that has not got enough lighting, could help build up a bigger picture which might ultimately prevent major crimes such as terrorism and human and drugs trafficking.
Local neighbourhood policing teams are also developing close working relationships with people who live or work near the coastline and liaising regularly with the UK Border Agency and other partners to ensure a constant flow of information. The project has started in the West Downs division of Sussex which covers Adur & Worthing, Arun and Chichester and will have been rolled out across the force by the end of September.
Sergeant Peter Allan of the Littlehampton Neighbourhood Policing Team said:
“It is so important that people are aware of what is going on around them when they are near the coast and the many waterways that cover the Arun District and beyond. Our varied waterways offer themselves to a great many pursuits, whether it is sailing, fishing or simply walking the dog along the riverbank. We ask that if you see something like packages being transferred to waiting cars; or boats with too many people on board, that you don’t just think, ‘That’s a bit odd’ and do nothing further with it. Please report it to Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or tell one of our officers who you can see regularly patrolling the coastline, so that we can decide if any further activity is required.
”Our waterways present ideal locations for those engaged in terrorism, the illegal trafficking of drugs, people or other contraband to further their crimes. Boats, moorings or marinas are also subject to the theft of equipment such as engines or navigational aids. Help us to ensure that Sussex's many waterways remains safe places to visit and enjoy.”
You can find out more about what to look out for at www.sussex.police.uk/kraken
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