Home / Crime and Justice / Undercover Cops Patrol Metro Trains in "Trojan Horse" Operation
Undercover Cops Patrol Metro Trains in "Trojan Horse" Operation
20 Mar
Summary
- Plain-clothed officers are patrolling routine Metro services.
- The operation aims to catch wanted individuals and habitual offenders.
- Anti-social behaviour on public transport has reduced by 37 percent.
Undercover police officers have begun patrolling Metro trains in Tyne and Wear as part of a new initiative called "Project Shield." This "Trojan horse" operation involves plain-clothed officers traveling on routine services at various times to address crime reports and apprehend wanted individuals. The project is designed to tackle issues such as habitual offending, knife carrying, anti-social behaviour, and drug dealing on public transport.
The operation, developed by Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner, aims to reassure passengers who have expressed safety concerns, particularly during nighttime travel. Operator Nexus, while maintaining the system's overall safety, acknowledged that incidents are less frequent where staff are present. Project Shield seeks to send a clear message to criminals that they will be caught.
Officials have reported that "Project Shield" has already contributed to a 37 percent reduction in anti-social behaviour on public transport since its commencement. The operation has secured funding for the next year and is expected to enhance the security and overall passenger experience on the Metro network.
