Teams from across Suffolk swept through the Triangle estate in south west Ipswich today (12 June), and targeted a whole range of problems.

At 7 am this morning, teams ranging from police, fire and rescue, IBC Community Caretakers, HM Revenue and Customs, VOSA, educational welfare and trading standards, hit the streets of the triangle estate, tackling everything from fly tipping to truants.

Charlotte Foster, Community Safety Officer, Suffolk County Council said, “These operations are important for various reasons. Particularly as they are a very visible and clear sign to local people about the positive work being done in their neighbourhoods. If officers identify a problem, whether it is an untaxed car or a dumped mattress, then they tackle it on the spot. By, clearing, cleaning and giving advice, residents can see the impact straightaway. We are delighted that today’s event has been so fruitful and productive for both the local community and officers.”

Results of the operation :

Education Welfare:

1 pupil returned to school

1 pupil returned to primary school & advice given to parent

1 home visit completed (year 10 pupil) pupil agreed to return to school. Advice given to parent and follow up checks to take place

Following checks at all schools, no other absentees found

2 pupils checked but had genuine reasons for being out of school

Trading Standards:

1 shop visit: training provided on underage-sales. Pricing and food labelling checks.

1 potential rogue trader: further investigation will take place.

Think twice (door-step trader advice & general consumer advice) given to vulnerable residents.

5 traders working on homes identified (changes in legislation information provided)

Pedestrian Teams:

Graffiti locations – 4 identified

19 Possible Home Shield referrals identified (of which some may require further visits)

2 Crime Reduction Visits (Home crime reduction surveys)

Clean up of ‘waste land’ identified

2 defective water hydrants

Community consultation (matters for Rail service and SNT)

I item of stolen property retrieved

Over 600 homes given crime prevention advice, neighbourhood watch information, Operation Crackdown information

5 vulnerable vehicles identified (insecure)

Drug and Alcohol Action Team

1 person given DAAT advice given

HM Revenue and Customs

5 bottles of smuggled spirits found

Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service

Over 40 homes given information on Home Fire Safety checks (offer of a check)

IBC community care takers

14 housing issues reported

Independent

Vehicle Enforcement Team (Roads Policing Unit, VOSA, HM Revenue and Customs)

22 Vehicles checked so far (up to mid-day)

3 Vehicles been seized so far (up to mid-day)

2 cars with no insurance

1 Car with no insurance and no driving license