South Yorkshire police bolster Olympics security operation

SOUTH Yorkshire officers will be re-inforcing the police operation at this summer’s London Olympics.

More than 350 officers--a maximum of 160 per day--will be drafted in to the Olympic operation over 99 days.

They are part of an operation involving personnel from 50 other forces from all over the country.

But Assistant Chief Constable Max Sahota said South Yorkshire communities will still be protected.

Annual leave has been restricted, non-essential training postponed and the special constabulary and volunteers will play a role.

“We are proud to support what will be the largest ever peacetime security and policing operation in the UK.

“Resource demands on the force and the rest of the police service will be challenging but I want to reassure our communities that policing in South Yorkshire will not be disrupted as a result.” said Mr Sahota.

“Annual leave has been restricted to ensure sufficient numbers of officers remain on duty in the county.

“This is not something we could sustain long term but is achievable for the duration of the games.”

Officers from South Yorkshire’s marine, public order, mounted section and dog unit, will take part as well as search, firearms and protection officers.

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