Crackdown on rail line trespassers in East Midlands

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British Transport Police (BTP), Network Rail and East Midlands Trains have begun a crackdown on youngsters who trespass on railway lines in the East Midlands this Easter.

With the onset of warmer weather and lighter nights, BTP, Network Rail and East Midlands trains have joined forces to begin a crackdown at a time when, traditionally, incidents of trespassing, stone throwing and vandalism increase.

As part of the crackdown a ‘Q train’, a special East Midlands train posing as a ‘dummy’ commuter train carrying police officers and Network Rail staff who can jump out and tackle trespassers and vandals seen whilst on board, or through vehicle patrols shadowing the train, is being used.

BtPQTrain
The 'Q Train' and Officers in action.

The train is being used to target ‘route crime’ hotspot areas throughout the East Midlands. BTP officers are also increasing line side patrols during the Eater holidays.

BTP Inspector Mark Clements said the crackdown is being run locally to combat route crime, warning that those messing around near railways would be dicing with death.

“Trespass may not sound like a serious offence but, in the unforgiving environment of the railway, it can be a major safety hazard. Trespassers put themselves, rail staff and passengers in danger.”

“Trespass often leads to other offences – it is difficult to commit vandalism or to obstruct trains without trespassing. Holes made in fences by trespassers allow children to wander onto the railway, sometimes with fatal consequences.

“Vandalising signalling and communications equipment and obstructing trains puts lives at risk, while stone throwing is potentially fatal. Even a small stone dropped from a bridge and meeting a train travelling at 100mph can kill.”

BTP and Network Rail works closely with children and young people in schools to educate them about the dangers associated with the railways and are also urging parents to do their bit by spreading the message and making sure they know where their children are.

He added:

“Our main concern is the safety of youngsters but we will also do everything in our power to prosecute anyone caught deliberately obstructing the railway or trespassing on the tracks and endangering people’s safety, with the maximum penalty being life imprisonment.”

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