Lisburn Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), local police and Lisburn Commerce Against Crime have established a further extension to the very important radio link that currently exists within Lisburn City Centre. A recent increase in crimes against off-licences within the City Centre has resulted in a roll out of radio link to these premises providing a quicker response by both CCTV operators and police resulting in an increase in detection rates.

Councillor Brian Bloomfield, Lisburn PCSP Chairman, speaking about the initiative, said: “I fully endorse this initiative and the financial commitment that the PCSP has given. It is an opportunity for staff working in city centre off-licences to have direct access to CCTV operators who can quickly identify suspects leaving their premises and thereby direct police to them thus increasing detection rates. In real terms, I can report that during the short period over the Christmas holidays this initiative has resulted in 13 incidents being reported where minors and intoxicated persons have been refused alcohol. This is very encouraging and will support the police in reducing alcohol related crimes and anti-social behaviour.”

Area Commander for Lisburn, Chief Inspector John Wilson said: “PSNI Officers in Lisburn will play a vital part in this new initiative. This communications network allows rapid and effective information sharing between businesses and CCTV operators in the city and already it is bringing positive results. It will help prevent crime, detect criminals and keep people safe.”

The Chairman for Lisburn Commerce Against Crime, Mr Ernie Knox commented: “CCTV plays a huge role in exposing alcohol and drug related crime as well as more serious violent offences. CCTV operatives work very closely with the police and retailers who together with the Radio Link initiative help to detect and reduce these crimes in the Lisburn City Council area. All concerned are to be commended for these outstanding results. We now have over 80 businesses that are part of the Radio Link initiative in the city centre that greatly contributes to the reduction of crime in the area making Lisburn a safer place to work, live and shop.”

Pictured at the launch of the Radio Link for Lisburn Off-Licenses are Lisburn PCSP Chairman, Cllr Bloomfield, Members of Lisburn Commerce Against Crime, Chief Inspector John Wilson, PSNI Area Commander and staff members of Wineflair Off-Licences.