First police CCTV camera operation hailed success

STV
Personal CCTV: Police-worn cameras hailed success in first operation.© STV

The first trial of CCTV cameras worn by police officers in Aberdeen has been hailed a success.

Officers wore the new devices over three evenings in the Northfield area following reports of anti-social behaviour by concerned residents.

As a result of the operation, four people were arrested for a variety of offences including theft and assault. Volumes of heroin and alcohol were seized during stop and searches between May 31 and June 2.

Sergeant Colin Hood of the Northfield Local Policing Team said the reaction to the cameras from the general public was “overwhelmingly supportive”.

"I have no doubt that the introduction of these cameras not only contributed to the positive outcome of this particular operation, but will continue to be an effective tool in our determination to drive down crime and anti-social behaviour in our communities,” he said.

Northfield Councillor Kevin Stewart welcomed the operation, saying: "We have already noted major differences in the community and I am sure the pilot will continue to be extremely successful in future."