18 arrests made and machete seized in “positive day of police action”

Three dogs were also recovered “for their own safety” after an animal welfare warrant was carried out alongside the RSPCA as part of Operation Duxford’s “positive day of police action across the district”.

Four drugs warrants were executed resulting in a quantity of drugs being found and 12 stop and searches were carried out, with two suspicious vehicles also searched. 

The 18 people were arrested for a variety of offences including burglary, domestic assaults and possession with intent to supply.

Forty nine housing visits were carried out with partner agencies as part of the day when South Yorkshire Police work alongside specialist teams from across the force to address concerns raised by local residents.

Eleven speeding operations were carried out, with 1,133 vehicles being checked for speeding and 42 vehicles found over the speed limit. Eight tickets were also issued for driving offences. 

Chief superintendent Steve Chapman, Rotherham’s district commander, said: “Operation Duxford puts the spotlight on Rotherham for all the right reasons.

“Having our neighbourhood teams supported by additional and specialist resources means we can make a real impact across the day. We also use these operations as an opportunity to work with our partners and visit some of the town’s most vulnerable people.”

Rotherham Council also joined the Rotherham Central Team to visit Wharncliffe flats, where they met residents, dealt with fly-tipping and conducted housing visits.

Chief Supt Chapman said: “Wharncliffe flats is an area where we do receive reports of drugs and anti-social behaviour, so with our partners it’s important we approach this from both angles. 

“Yes, enforcement action is necessary, but it’s also about making sure people can access the right support, understand the impact of their actions and know where to go if they need help.”

Neighbourhood teams also focused on community engagement through hosting crime prevention stalls across the town, and visiting vulnerable residents to provide advice around identifying bogus officials and protecting their property from thieves.

Chief Supt Chapman added: “We are currently in the middle of our biggest ever recruitment drive and our neighbourhood teams are growing. 

“I hope people are starting to feel the difference here in Rotherham and I’m looking forward to the improvements these teams will make this year.”