The Police Service of Northern Ireland has today, Monday 24th November, launched its annual Christmas policing operation, Operation Season’s Greetings, aimed at keeping people safe throughout the festive period and into the New Year.
The operation will see increased police visibility and patrols across towns and cities in Northern Ireland, with uniformed and plain-clothed officers focusing on shopping areas, nightlife venues and public transport hubs to deter criminal activity, reassure the public, and support local businesses.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson, who is leading this year’s operation, said: “Christmas is a time for family, friends and community, a time that should be filled with celebration and not concern. Through Operation Season’s Greetings, our officers will be out across Northern Ireland, providing a visible presence to help keep people safe, prevent crime, and offer reassurance to shoppers, businesses and those enjoying festive nights out.
“Our focus this year will be on public safety, road safety and tackling violence against women and girls, alongside preventing thefts and antisocial behaviour in busy shopping and nightlife areas. We’re also encouraging everyone to take some simple precautions - secure your home, plan your nights out responsibly to ensure you get home safe, and take care of your personal belongings. Small steps can make a big difference.”
As part of this year’s operation, Project Vigilant will also be in place across a number of key towns and cities. The initiative involves plain-clothed officers working alongside uniformed colleagues in and around nightlife areas to identify predatory behaviour, intervene early, and protect individuals who may be vulnerable on nights out. The project aims to prevent sexual offences and ensure that everyone can enjoy the night-time economy safely.
Assistant Chief Constable Henderson continued: “Project Vigilant is an important part of our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. By identifying concerning behaviour early - whether that’s unwanted attention, someone being followed, or a situation where a person appears vulnerable - our officers can intervene before harm occurs. This proactive approach helps keep people safe and sends a clear message that predatory behaviour will not be tolerated.”
“Sadly, we know that reports of domestic abuse often increase during the Christmas period. Our message to anyone affected is clear. We are here for you. Please reach out if you need help. Call us on 101, make a report online at www.psni.police.uk/report, or dial 999 in an emergency. We will listen, we will act, and we will support you.”
The Police Service continues to work closely with partners, including Retail NI and Translink, and through the Business Crime Partnership, which brings together organisations such as the Federation of Small Businesses, the hospitality sector, and other key stakeholders. This collaborative approach helps strengthen safety and security across high streets, retail centres and hospitality venues throughout Northern Ireland.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson added: “The Business Crime Partnership plays a vital role in supporting our joint efforts to reduce business-related crime, share information, and promote safer trading environments. By working together with business representatives, we can ensure that staff, customers and communities all benefit from a safer, more welcoming festive season.”
Ian Campbell, Translink Director of Service Operations, said: “Safety remains our top priority with the return of our popular late-night bus and train services over the festive period plus the start of the new year-round late night bus pilot scheme.
“We continue to work closely with the PSNI as part of a multi-agency approach to ensure a safe environment for everyone in all public spaces while supporting the local economy and encouraging more sustainable travel choices.
“There’s a wide range of services and good value tickets to choose from and we would encourage our customers to plan their travel in advance using the Translink JourneyPlanner App or visit www.translink.co.uk/christmas for further details.”
Glyn Roberts, Retail NI Chief Executive, added: “Christmas is a challenging but enjoyable time of the year for retailers, shop staff and customers. It is critically important that we work in partnership with the Police to ensure people stay safe and be vigilant against shoplifting and other crime.”
“Our retail and hospitality sectors are working extremely hard to make this Christmas a fantastic experience in our high streets and we urge consumers to follow the PSNI advise to stay safe and secure."
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly said: “As Lord Mayor, I want everyone across Belfast to enjoy a safe, welcoming and joyful Christmas. I welcome Operation Season’s Greetings and the continued partnership between the PSNI, local businesses and community organisations. Their collective efforts play a vital role in keeping our city and neighbourhoods safe at this busy time of year. I would encourage everyone to look out for one another, plan ahead, and enjoy all that Belfast has to offer responsibly.”
For more information on crime prevention, personal safety and how to contact your local police, visit www.psni.police.uk/christmas.