PRESS RELEASE

Police across Scotland will be targeting alcohol fuelled violence in the run up Christmas.

The three week crackdown, which will run from 3 – 21 December, aims to reduce violence and anti-social behaviour on Scotland’s streets.

The seasonal booze blitz is the latest phase in the ongoing Safer Scotland anti-violence campaign, co-ordinated by the Violence Reduction Unit.

Over the next month police are aiming to reduce the amount of alcohol getting into the hands of underage drinkers and highlight the dangers of agent purchase – where adults knowingly buy alcohol on behalf of under18s.

Posters are being distributed to off licences to highlight the campaign, while officers will be visiting schools and distributing leaflets on the dangers of alcohol at under 18s discos.

Officers will also be targeting street drinking by all age groups using local byelaws.

Forces will work closely with Community Safety Partnerships and Alcohol Action Teams during the phase, ensuring it goes to the heart of the local communities.

Safer Scotland co-ordinator Chief Inspector Andy McKay said:
“Alcohol related violence is a problem that blights every community in Scotland, from major cities to rural areas. Christmas is a time when pubs and bars are at their busiest and many of those attending festive parties will be
inexperienced drinkers who are more susceptible to becoming either victims or perpetrators of alcohol-fuelled violence.

“We are committed to tackling this issue and making our streets safer for everyone. Make no mistake, anyone caught can expect to be dealt with severely. We want to send out a clear message that such behaviour is unacceptable.

“But this isn’t just about clamping down on those who engage in alcohol related violence. We need to educate people about the dangers of excessive drinking and the effects it can have.”
The phase is backed by an additional £1m government funding which was pledged by Cabinet Secretary for Justice Kenny MacAskill at theSafer Scotland Weapons & Alcohol Fuelled Violence Conference held on 26th September in Edinburgh.