Patrols to start in Essex locations visited by asylum seekers
Essex County Council is launching a three-month trial of private security patrols in three towns to deter anti-social behavior near asylum seeker accommodation. While the council emphasizes resident safety, local police and opposition politicians have questioned the necessity and potential for community tension.
Why it matters
The initiative highlights the ongoing political friction in the UK regarding the management of asylum seekers and the role of local versus national authorities in public safety.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, The former Wethersfield airbase has housed asylum seekers since July 2023
Patrols by private security guards are to begin from Monday at three Essex locations that asylum seekers frequently visit, a council has confirmed.
Six trained and uniformed "security operatives" would patrol Braintree, Colchester and Chelmsford centres seven days a week, from 10:00 to 18:00, as part of a three-month trial, said Reform UK-led Essex County Council.
The initiative, named Operation Vanguard, was launched in direct response to concerns raised by residents and would "deter anti-social behaviour", it added.
It came after the government said it was looking to increase the number of people at MDP Wethersfield - which has been used to house single male migrants since 2023 - from about 800 to 1,220.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in