As part of the antisocial behaviour phase of a Strathclyde Polcie force-wide campaign against violence – ‘Break the Circle of Violence’ – officers in North Lanarkshire are continuing to work with licensed premises in a bid to curb violent crime.
With staff from the Basement Nightclub in Cumbernauld, ‘Operation Ferroguard’ was launched on Friday, July 25 to target night club revellers in the town centre and to uncover anyone carrying an offensive weapon.
In addition to the standard searches carried out by club stewards, Operation Ferroguard means that anyone wishing to gain entry to the night club must pass through a metal detector system operated by local police officers. The operation is backed with high visibility patrols, with officers visiting licensed premises and hotspot areas renowned for disorder within the town centre.
Inspector John McTear from Cumbernauld Police Office said: “Operation Ferroguard is a welcome addition to our ongoing activities aimed at reducing violent crime across North Lanarkshire division. With excessive alcohol consumption a well known contributor to violent incidents, it is hoped that this recent operation will act as a strong deterrent for weapon carriers and will drive home the message that weapons are not welcome in our pubs and clubs, or on our streets.
“We are encouraged by the fact that no weapons were recovered on the evening of the launch – the message is getting out there and our high visibility patrols are proving to be effective. It is important that both revellers and workers within licensed premises can feel safe and secure and that they feel reassured that they can enjoy a social occasion free from the fear of crime.
“The message is simple. Anyone intending to carry a weapon should think again and consider the serious consequences – you will be caught.”
