Home / Crime and Justice / Wild West Erupts in Northeast UK Amidst Chaos
Wild West Erupts in Northeast UK Amidst Chaos
7 Jul
Summary
- Police are deploying drones and a dedicated taskforce.
- Operations include plain-clothed officers and DNA marking spray.
- Residents describe the situation as 'like the Wild West'.
A company has suspended services, citing the need to "protect the safety of its customers and drivers" amid rising anti-social behavior (ASB). Northumbria Police have established a "dedicated taskforce" across South Tyneside and Sunderland to address the issue. This initiative involves "Trojan Bus" operations with plain-clothed officers and specialized Roads Policing Units trained for tactical contact with vehicles.
Authorities are also employing advanced surveillance, including in-house drone pilots and the National Police Air Service, alongside DNA marking spray for offenders. Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth is closely monitoring drone deployment and has announced a "programme of activity" to combat ASB.
Local council officials urge residents to report incidents through official channels for proper logging and investigation. Transport operator Nexus is committed to maintaining safety at the South Shields interchange with a dedicated security team. However, some residents express deep concern, with one woman describing the situation as "like the Wild West in the North East."
