Labour Conference policing operation '˜a success'

The conference, which began on Sunday (September 24), saw thousands of delegates arrive in Brighton and Hove.

Sussex Police, working with the Labour Party, security provider Securitas and Brighton and Hove City Council, said its security operation - Operation Otter -has been a success.

Superintendent Jane Derrick, who led the policing operation, said: “Months of planning goes on ahead of the conference and we have worked hard with our partners to ensure the appropriate level of policing to keep delegates and the public safe.

“I want to thank the community of Brighton and Hove for all their support and cooperation. We’ve done our best to reduce any inconvenience to them during what has been a busy period for the city.

“As well as the policing of the conference, we’ve facilitated a number of groups wishing to demonstrate in the city over the past week, as well as overseeing the Brighton and Hove Albion match against Newcastle United on Sunday. I’d like to thank the groups of demonstrators who have protested peacefully throughout the city and worked with our Protest Liaison Teams to ensure the safety of those involved and affected.

“My final thanks go to the police officers and staff and all our partners who worked on this operation, and those who provided policing support elsewhere in Sussex, for their professionalism throughout.”

Two arrests were made in connection with the conference, associated fringe events or protests.

A 39-year-old man from Brighton was issued with a Cannabis Street Warning on Saturday, September 23, after being found to be in possession of the drug.

And police said Anthony Lehal, 57, unemployed, of Anson Road, Islington, London, was arrested on Sunday, September 24 and later charged with being drunk and disorderly in a public place and possession of a Class B drug - cannabis. He has been bailed to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on October 12.