Police ask trick or treaters to ‘be considerate’ to others

AS darkness falls and the ghouls make their yearly flight across the land; tombs creak as their inhabitants step once more amongst us, black cats prowl the streets in search of their wicked friends and pumpkins gleam to ward off the ghostly beings; Halloween returns for another year!

It is an exciting time of year, with witches flying and zombies trudging the streets. It is also a busy one for the Police; Gwent Police had approximately 607 calls into their force control room last year on the night of October 31st. Most calls related to crime, public safety and anti-social behaviour.

Heddlu Gwent Police would like to remind everybody that although it is an exciting festival, not everyone sees the fun.

If you are out trick-or-treating, please be considerate to others. If you see a ‘no callers’ sign, please do not stop by.

Remember that costumes and late evening knock at the door can be frightening to vulnerable members of our communities. For many, when things go bump in the night, it can cause a great deal of upset and distress.

We are asking shopkeepers to be alert to anybody purchasing items that have been historically been used to cause damage and anti-social behaviour, namely eggs and flour. There a many uses for eggs and throwing them is not one!

This behaviour will be treated as criminal damage and those caught will be prosecuted and could face a criminal record.

Parents; make sure that your children do not go out alone. We recommend sticking to well-lit areas and only knock on doors of people you know.

We want you to have a fun night, full of frights and bag-fulls of delights, so stay safe and on the right side of the law.

“Who you gonna call…?” If anyone has any concerns or believe a criminal offence is being committed please call 101 or in an emergency always dial 999.