Operation Duxford recently returned to the streets of Barnsley, making significant strides in the ongoing battle against exploitation and organized criminality. In a decisive day of action, law enforcement agencies and their partners apprehended 11 individuals on various charges, ranging from robbery to possession of drugs with intent to supply, immigration violations, and assault, as reported by South Yorkshire Police (Press Release).
This highly-visible police operation, executed in collaboration with Barnsley Council under the ‘Joining Forces’ initiative, targeted these issues head-on, bringing offenders to justice and sending a clear message to wrongdoers.
Five early morning warrants were executed at addresses across the town, resulting in one arrest and the seizure of cannabis plants, three shotguns, and a machete. These actions demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of the community.
Simultaneously, safeguarding visits were conducted at five hand car washes as part of Operation Bubbles. This effort led to seven arrests for immigration offenses. Operation Bubbles represents a dedicated approach to tackling modern slavery and exploitation within the hand car wash industry.
Collaboration with partners such as the Immigration Service and the Department for Work and Pensions is integral to the operation’s success. Notably, at one of the car washes, authorities seized three thousand pounds in cash, underscoring the importance of these efforts.
In addition to these activities, officers and Barnsley Council representatives visited petrol stations struggling with petrol theft issues. They also reached out to young people identified as at risk of exploitation and conducted joint town center patrols to support individuals who appeared to be homeless. Over the course of the day, officers and their partners engaged with over 1,300 people, fostering a sense of community and addressing concerns.
Barnsley Chief Inspector John Mallows emphasized the significance of Operation Duxford and the power of collaboration: “We know that we are stronger when we work together, and that is why the ‘Joining Forces’ initiative is really important, and something which we wholly support.”
He praised the positive results achieved during the day of action, particularly in relation to safeguarding visits, and reiterated the commitment to combating exploitation and modern slavery, not only in Barnsley but across South Yorkshire.
Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities at Barnsley Council, expressed satisfaction with the operation’s outcomes. She thanked all involved parties, including the Safer Neighbourhoods team and South Yorkshire Police, for their dedicated efforts in making Barnsley a safer place for residents and visitors alike. She encouraged community members to report any concerns about crime and anti-social behavior to South Yorkshire Police.
Operation Duxford, in partnership with ‘Joining Forces,’ continues to set a powerful example of proactive law enforcement and community collaboration, ensuring the well-being and safety of the people of Barnsley. Through such joint efforts, the battle against exploitation and organized criminality gains momentum, sending a strong message that these activities will not be tolerated in the community.
