Operation Spotlight, which ran from June 2025 to March 2026, focused police resources on 26 identified crime hotspots across the county. Over the course of the operation, officers completed more than 10,200 patrol hours, exceeding the planned minimum by over 700 hours.

The operation led to:

• 262 arrests
• 27 weapons seized
• 304 stop and searches, with more than one‑third resulting in positive outcomes

Analysis from Suffolk Constabulary shows the sustained patrol activity has had a tangible impact on crime, particularly in communities most affected by anti‑social behaviour and related criminality.

Across the period:

• Anti‑social behaviour fell by 172 incidents compared to the previous year
• Overall crime across the targeted hotspots fell year on year, despite seasonal peaks during summer months

The most intensive patrol periods took place during late 2025, with November recording the highest concentration of patrol hours, reflecting a deliberate focus on high‑risk times and locations.

Western area commander Superintendent Pete Partridge said the results demonstrate the value of targeted, data‑driven policing. He said: “Operation Spotlight shows what can be achieved when police resources are focused at the right places, at the right times, based on clear evidence.

“Residents told us they wanted to see officers in their neighbourhoods, tackling anti‑social behaviour and criminality. This operation delivered exactly that and has helped make our communities safer.

“I’d also like to think this focussed activity has also, in some small part, contributed to the fact Suffolk is now has the second lowest recorded crime rate in the country.”

Police also worked closely with partner agencies throughout the operation, ensuring enforcement activity was supported by prevention, safeguarding and community engagement.

Supt Partridge added: “We remain committed to preventing crime in partnership with our local authorities, community organisations, businesses and the voluntary sector to solve problems together.”

“The learning from this year’s campaign will continue to inform how we deploy resources, target demand and protect our communities in future. Remember, we always want to hear from members of the public – by continuing to report concerns and suspicious activity, this will help police target resources where they are most needed.”

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “The Hotspot policing initiative was started under the previous government and for the past two years the force has been given a £1m grant to pay for additional police work which was most welcome.

“These impressive results speak for themselves, and the funding has made a very positive and visible contribution to reducing crime and bringing offenders to justice.

“It is very frustrating that the Home Office has chosen not to continue to fund Hotspot policing, but I can assure everyone that this work will continue.

“These types of crimes and anti-social behaviour are never acceptable, and I am pleased the local policing teams are taking such a tough multi-agency approach. Well done to all the teams involved.”