Operation BANG launches in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot

With celebrations for Halloween and Bonfire Night fast approaching a concerted effort is once again being undertaken by community safety partners, including police, fire service and trading standards, to reduce the number of incidents over this period.

Operation BANG (Be A Nice Guy) will see officers setting about reassuring the communities that everything possible is being done to ensure that the tricks and excitement of both events do not turn into anything more disturbing.

The Safer Swansea and Safer Neath Port Talbot Community Safety Partnerships will be launching the 2015 Operation BANG campaign at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday 24th October, ahead of the Ospreys’ match against Connacht (1.30pm kick off).

The partnerships will be spreading the Operation BANG message to fans. Officers will be on hand to offer safety advice for the forthcoming Halloween and Bonfire night period.

Mid and West Wales fire service will be offering free home fire safety checks, while there will be face painting and crime prevention giveaways.

PC Mark Davies, anti-social behaviour co-ordinator, said:

“During Operation BANG we will support people enjoying the occasion who are acting responsibly however we will be firm with those who flout the law and jeopardise the safety of others.

“We encourage parents to ensure they know where their children are and what they are doing.

“We ask people to consider the impact of their behaviour on the more vulnerable within our communities.”

A wide range of initiatives are planned in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night to give youngsters the opportunity of engaging in positive activities as opposed to spending their time on the streets.

PC Davies added:

“Our efforts over a number of years have resulted in fewer complaints of anti-social behaviour, however, we cannot be complacent.

“Halloween and Bonfire Night should not provide an excuse for anyone to roam the streets harassing and victimising people and motorists.”