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‘Women feel unsafe’ as calls made for Meadow Street police patrols to be upped

Posted on - 15th January, 2025 - 9:00am | Author - | Posted in - Crime, Deepdale, Lancashire Police, Politics, Preston Council, Preston News, St Matthews
Meadow Street. Pic: Google Street View
Meadow Street in St Matthews. Pic: Google Street View

A Preston councillor has criticised the lack of police presence in their ward in the wake of a terrifying attack.

Councillor Suleman Sarwar of St Matthews ward stated he has consistently raised concerns about the lack of a police presence in and around Meadow Street.

Cllr Sarwar told Blog Preston: “I understand that with reduced resources and the challenges of neighbourhood policing, it is difficult to always cover every area at all times.

“However, this does not change the fact that residents, particularly women, have long reported feeling unsafe.”

He added that the public needs to see a strong, unified response during these challenging times, a visible and proactive approach would go a long way to restoring trust and confidence.

Cllr Sarwar’s comments come after a 30-year-old woman was reported to have been raped in Meadow Street in early January, triggering a police investigation and appeal for information with CCTV pictures released.

Ionica Rujea, of New Hall Lane, was charged during Tuesday with rape, assault and false imprisonment.

Mr. Sarwar is also calling for an urgent community meeting at Catherine Beckett’s Centre between senior police officials, the Police and Crime Commissioner and Preston City Council where they can update residents on their safety plans.

He said: “It is vital that we, as a community, unite with senior police officers, PCC safeguarding officers and other relevant stakeholders to address the public’s concerns and provide reassurance.”

Lancashire Police told Blog Preston in response to Cllr Sarwar’s comments: “We have a police officer dedicated to the St Matthew’s ward, together with PCSOs.

“Last week’s incident will have naturally caused a lot of concern, and you will see patrols in the area for reassurance.

“We are working with Preston City Council and other partner agencies to tackle violence against women and girls and to support them.

“We will be meeting with the local councillor and residents, to discuss their concerns.”

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