Operation Season’s Greetings: PSNI launches festive policing operation to keep Northern Ireland safe

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched its annual Christmas policing operation, Operation Season’s Greetings, aimed at keeping people safe throughout the festive period and into the New Year.

The initiative, unveiled on Monday 24th November, will see increased police visibility and patrols across towns and cities, with a strong focus on shopping districts, nightlife venues and public transport hubs.

Both uniformed and plain-clothed officers will be deployed to deter crime, reassure communities, and support local businesses during one of the busiest times of the year.

Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Ryan Henderson, who is leading this year’s operation, emphasised the importance of public safety during the Christmas season. He said:

“Christmas is a time for family, friends and community, a time that should be filled with celebration and not concern. Through Operation Season’s Greetings, our officers will be out across Northern Ireland, providing a visible presence to help keep people safe, prevent crime, and offer reassurance to shoppers, businesses and those enjoying festive nights out.

“Our focus this year will be on public safety, road safety and tackling violence against women and girls, alongside preventing thefts and antisocial behaviour in busy shopping and nightlife areas.

“We’re also encouraging everyone to take some simple precautions – secure your home, plan your nights out responsibly to ensure you get home safe, and take care of your personal belongings. Small steps can make a big difference.”

Project Vigilant returns to target predatory behaviour

As part of the wider Christmas operation, the PSNI confirmed that Project Vigilant will be rolled out across multiple towns and cities.

The initiative partners plain-clothed officers with uniformed colleagues to identify predatory behaviour around nightlife locations, intervene early, and help protect vulnerable individuals.

ACC Henderson said:

“Project Vigilant is an important part of our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. By identifying concerning behaviour early – whether that’s unwanted attention, someone being followed, or a situation where a person appears vulnerable – our officers can intervene before harm occurs. This proactive approach helps keep people safe and sends a clear message that predatory behaviour will not be tolerated.”

He also highlighted concerns about rising domestic abuse reports during the Christmas period.

“Sadly, we know that reports of domestic abuse often increase during the Christmas period. Our message to anyone affected is clear. We are here for you. Please reach out if you need help. Call us on 101, make a report online at www.psni.police.uk/report, or dial 999 in an emergency. We will listen, we will act, and we will support you.”

Business and transport partners join safety effort

The PSNI continues to strengthen its partnership approach through organisations including Retail NI, Translink, and the Business Crime Partnership, which represents retailers, hospitality operators and small businesses.

ACC Henderson said:

“The Business Crime Partnership plays a vital role in supporting our joint efforts to reduce business-related crime, share information, and promote safer trading environments. By working together with business representatives, we can ensure that staff, customers and communities all benefit from a safer, more welcoming festive season.”

Translink Director of Service Operations, Ian Campbell, confirmed that enhanced late-night transport will support safe travel throughout December:

“Safety remains our top priority with the return of our popular late-night bus and train services over the festive period plus the start of the new year-round late night bus pilot scheme.

“We continue to work closely with the PSNI as part of a multi-agency approach to ensure a safe environment for everyone in all public spaces while supporting the local economy and encouraging more sustainable travel choices.”

He encouraged the public to plan ahead via the Translink JourneyPlanner app or the organisation’s website.

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts added:

“Christmas is a challenging but enjoyable time of the year for retailers, shop staff and customers. It is critically important that we work in partnership with the Police to ensure people stay safe and be vigilant against shoplifting and other crime.

“Our retail and hospitality sectors are working extremely hard to make this Christmas a fantastic experience in our high streets and we urge consumers to follow the PSNI advise to stay safe and secure.”

Belfast Lord Mayor welcomes festive policing strategy

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Tracy Kelly, welcomed the focus on community safety during the busiest season of the year. She said:

“As Lord Mayor, I want everyone across Belfast to enjoy a safe, welcoming and joyful Christmas. I welcome Operation Season’s Greetings and the continued partnership between the PSNI, local businesses and community organisations. Their collective efforts play a vital role in keeping our city and neighbourhoods safe at this busy time of year.

“I would encourage everyone to look out for one another, plan ahead, and enjoy all that Belfast has to offer responsibly.”

For further information on crime prevention, personal safety, or how to contact local police, visit: www.psni.police.uk/christmas