The UK county stepping up police patrols to protect women and girls | UK | News
Police patrols are being intensified across the City as officers take action to protect women and girls during the busy festive season. As part of Project Vigilant, Kent Police is deploying both uniformed and plainclothes officers to town and city centers to detect predatory behavior and intervene before incidents escalate. The operation focuses on preventing attackers from targeting women socializing outside at night.
Between 12 and 14 December 2025, officers carried out targeted patrols in Canterbury, Medway and Maidstone, focusing on high streets, pubs, clubs and other licensed venues. Police said patrols will be increased across the City during the festive period, with more operations planned in different towns and cities.
When concerning behavior was detected, officers intervened quickly to prevent situations from escalating into potential criminal offenses or violence. Numerous stops were carried out throughout the district, intelligence reports were prepared and early interventions were made to prevent predatory sexual crimes.
Police officers in Canterbury dealt with an aggressive man who approached women, asked for money and was given a Community Order. Two additional suspects have been identified and arrested in connection with the ongoing grievous bodily harm investigation.
In Maidstone, officers stopped and spoke to a man wandering at the top of Gabs Hill before he fled the area. Patrols also contacted three sex offenders who were identified during the operation. No crime was detected but intelligence was gathered.
Three women approached police officers on a main street in Rochester and reported that a man forced them into an alley before showing them a knife. The police identified the suspect and pursued him on foot. It was determined that, in addition to the knife, he also had ID and bank cards belonging to other people.
A 19-year-old man from Rochester was arrested on suspicion of burglary, aggravated larceny and possession of a weapon in a public place.
The activity forms part of wider work by community patrol officers, who spend time talking to door staff, partner agencies and the public to ensure people feel safe and their concerns are heard.
Kent Police also supported Project Vigilant by training two specialist police dogs to detect leftover drugs. PD Sully and PD Max will support officers in identifying individuals in possession of substances used to commit serious sexual offences.
Inspector Nick Sparkes said: “In the busy period leading up to Christmas we are increasing our presence and increasing patrols in areas with high foot traffic. “Dealing with suspicious activity early ensures everyone has a safe night out.
“Operations like this form just one part of our ongoing commitment to protecting women and girls, and we will continue to take proactive action against those who seek to cause harm, exploit vulnerable people or threaten public safety.”
