Police Step Up Patrols as Youths Dispersed from Hornchurch High Street.

Officers carried out high‑visibility reassurance patrols on Hornchurch High Street on Monday 16 March 2026 as part of routine policing efforts to keep the town centre safe. During the patrols, a group of youths was stopped after attempting to make off from officers. As the situation was being managed, more youths joined the group but were later dispersed from the area without incident.

Havering safer neighbourhood teams say these patrols are part of a wider plan covering Hornchurch, Upminster, and Elm Park, aimed at reassuring the community and maintaining a strong policing presence.

Inspector Connolly, leading the local team, said: “Our officers will continue to conduct regular high‑visibility patrols to prevent anti-social behaviour. If residents see a larger police presence, this is part of our plan to ensure safety across the town centre.”

He added: “Havering safer neighbourhood teams are committed to stopping anyone behaving in an anti-social manner. We encourage members of the public to sign up to www.metengage.co.uk for up-to-date information and access to your local safer neighbourhood team.”

Police confirmed there were no other reports of a serious nature during the patrols, but said they will continue to monitor the area closely and respond quickly to any incidents.

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