New operation launched to tackle Wolverhampton organised crime

West Midlands Police have announced the launch of a new city-wide operation in Wolverhampton that will help tackle organised crime and violence through proactive policing. 

The initiative, named 'Operation Redfox', will see officers target specific areas across the city, focusing on neighbourhoods where they believe there's an increased risk of violence.

The force said that officers will execute warrants, carry out proactive operations, and be more visible in hotspot areas, including the city centre, Whitmore Reans, East Park, Heath Town, Bilston and Dunstall. 

The new operation comes following a number of violent incidents in the Wolverhampton area, including one where 24-year-old, Neo Graham, was fatally shot on Eastfield Grove, in March of this year. 

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We want our open spaces to remain places for all our communities to enjoy, and not be fearful of going and following a series of high-profile incidents across the city we are bringing in additional resources to identify those involved in serious organised crime locally. 

"We'll carry out operations including knife arches at prominent locations, but we will also be educating young people around the dangers of being involved in gangs and violence."

As part of the operation, the force has urged local people to support their work by sharing information they have about local gang activity around the city. 

The spokesperson said: "Our position is clear, gang activity, carrying weapons or getting involved in organised crime – such as drug dealing – is not glamourous and can put lives at risk, including your own.

"As part of Op Redfox we are urging local people to support our work by sharing information they may have about local gang activity or crime across the city."

For more information on Operation Redfox, or to submit information on violence and organised crime in your area, visit the operation's website.