Operation Vigilant patrols carried out in Canterbury

Operation Vigilant patrols carried out in Canterbury

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Violence against women and girls (VAWG), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

On the evening of Saturday 14 November 2026, officers from the Canterbury Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted an Operation Vigilant deployment in the city centre.

With this time of year being especially busy in Canterbury city centre due to the Christmas Market in the High Street and Whitefriars, these patrols are part of our ongoing work to keep both visitors and residents safe. Operation Vigilant is a dedicated policing initiative aimed at tackling predatory behaviour, preventing violence against women and girls, and ensuring everyone can enjoy a safe visit or night out.

During the operation, specially trained plain-clothes officers worked closely alongside uniformed colleagues to identify suspicious behaviour—such as loitering, following, or harassment—and intervene early before offences could escalate. Officers also spoke with local licensees, door staff, and visitors throughout the evening to offer reassurance and crime prevention advice.

Using local intelligence, officers carried out several proactive stop-searches and early interventions. Engagement with the public remained high throughout the night, helping our teams identify and frequently patrol potential hotspots.

These proactive patrols will continue across Canterbury throughout the festive period. If you ever feel unsafe while out in the city, or notice someone acting suspiciously, please speak to a uniformed officer, alert venue or market security staff, or report it to us online at www.kent.police.uk or by calling 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Further guidance on Violence Against Women and Girls
Learn more about what VAWG includes, how Kent Police is working to protect victims, and where to access support and information:
Tackling Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) | Kent Police

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.kent.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

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