PSNI’s Operation Zincmakes 18 arrests

Operation Zinc was set up by police in July to crack down on pre-arranged fights a police spokesperson said.

Police received reports of multiple fights, mainly between men, that were taking place on Bridge Street, Railway place, Bushmills road and near a railway crossing.

Since the beginning of Operation Zinc 18 people have been arrested and 18 charged with 35 offences including affray, attempted grievous bodily harm with intent and other public order offences.

There hasalso been a marked decrease in assaults and anti-social behaviour in the town centre, which police expect will come out in the end of year crime figures.

Inspector Catherine Magee commented on the Operation so far:

She said: “It has been important that police responded to the issue quickly. We will keep working with the local community to help make Coleraine is a safer place for everyone. The Operation will continue and we hope to provide future updates to the community when we can”