POLICE officers have been patrolling Scarborough Railway Station as part of a national operation aimed at tackling crime.
Operation Garland was organised by British Transport Police to ensure passenger and staff safety on the rail network during the festive season.
As well as the increase in high visibility patrols to target anti-social behaviour and violent crime, o
fficers used a drugs sniffer dog to detect drugs being carried through the station.
During the operation two people were cautioned after they were found to be in possession of small amounts of a controlled substance.
Sgt Matt Popple, of British Transport Police, said: "After a few drinks at the office party people are not as alert as they otherwise would be and this can put them in a vulnerable position if others are intent on committing crime. We will not tolerate the possession of drugs on the railway at this, or any other time of year, and we will be frequently conducting drug searches on trains and in stations throughout the festive season, using a team of drug detection dogs to detect and deter people from carrying illegal substances.
"I can't stress enough how important it is that you plan your route home before you start drinking.
''A good night out has a good ending and by checking your last train times and saving travel numbers in your phone, you can make sure it all goes according to plan."
As part of the operation officers handed out cards to passengers at stations which reminded them to: look after themselves, to keep their belongings safe and be respectful to other passengers and rail staff.
Officers were also looking out for anyone who was intimidating other passengers as a result of anti-social behaviour or who were being abusive towards rail staff.
Sgt Popple said: "Anyone whose behaviour crosses the line and becomes disorderly or abusive towards other passengers or staff will be dealt with very proactively by our officers."
