The annual Problem Solving Awards to explore, share and celebrate problem-solving initiatives across the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s policing Districts, has taken place where illegal street scrambling prevention measures actioned by Neighbourhood Policing Officers in West Belfast were recognised.
With multiple initiatives and campaigns between both police and our partners being implemented each year, it’s important for us to come together to award those who have gone above and beyond to keep their communities safe, through inspiring projects.
The West Belfast Neighbourhood Team were given a community award for their Operation CHICQUER initiative, a scheme to address illegal street scrambling that has resulted in a significant decrease in scrambler-related incidents.
The Colin Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) launched Op CHICQUER after the tragic death of a local mother prompted community outrage as well as ongoing issues of illegal scrambling.
The initiative yielded positive results, with a reduction in scrambler-related incidents, demonstrating the effectiveness of community engagement and education in addressing illegal scrambling in West Belfast.
Members of Colin NPT collaborated with community representatives, youth services and schools, taking a proactive and innovative approach to tackling this issue.
It was noted that around 70% of offenders were aged 12-18 with a number of hotspots being identified and last summer, the team ran a nine-week program with Cornerstone Off-Road Motorcycle Academy to educate 18 "at risk" youths on road safety.
They contacted landowners who were affected by the activity, developed a Criminal Justice Strategy and a social media campaign which led to the printing of leaflets/posters and pull up signs.
After consultation and partnership working with local schools, youth centres, businesses and community groups including Colin Neighbourhood Partnership, the leaflets were distributed locally and the posters and signs were displayed in prominent places throughout the Colin area.
Colin NPT officers continue to proactively target this dangerous issue daily during the course of their patrols, assisted by other neighbourhood, PSNI air support and local district policing teams.