Hampshire Constabulary’s Bestival police operation commander Chief Inspector James Fulton said, “Police would like to thank organisers, partner agencies, transport operators, the media and the public for the close co-operation that kept a huge number of people safe and on the move throughout a warm weekend at Bestival.
“Very little road traffic congestion was reported near the music festival site. We appreciate the substantial efforts of Isle of Wight Council in taking the lead on an efficient and effective traffic management plan.
“Hundreds of police officers, staff, special constables and volunteers worked exceptionally hard on well-rehearsed plans and patrols to disrupt and detect crime within Bestival’s lively and pleasant community of 50,000 people.
“We were also pleased with Bestival’s teenage management system as no sexual assaults or serious crimes were reported to have affected underage victims.
“Police used a wider range of crime prevention tactics and technology to help reduce the risk of thefts. These included regular messages via Facebook, Twitter, Bluetooth, signs at ferry terminals, and banners around the event, all reminding people to protect their personal property.
“Overall crime figures continue to be analysed but we are encouraged by provisional numbers that show the vast majority of Bestival revellers were able to enjoy their weekend free from the consequences of crime.”
The statistics
- Drugs search operation at the point of entry resulted in 531 searches.
- 174 drugs offences were detected.
- Pro-active patrols and searches led to 32 arrests for suspected drugs supply offences.
- In total – £36,000 worth of drugs were seized.
- Thefts from people fell significantly from 102 in 2011 to 40 this year so far.
- Thefts from tents are down so far from 184 in 2011 to 127 this year so far.
- Seven physical assaults were reported.
Unlicensed taxis
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman added: “Officers seized two cars that were being used as unlicensed taxis on the island over the Bestival weekend.
“Police and Isle of Wight Council made a clear warning to motorists that action would be taken against them if they accepted money from passengers without the necessary insurance or licence issued by the local authority. We will not tolerate motorists who put the public in danger on the road during such a busy weekend for traffic.”
Anyone with further information about unlicensed taxis can contact police by phoning 101. Mini-Com users can call the police on 18001 101. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. Isle of Wight Council’s Licensing team can be contacted by phoning 01983 823159.
