Operation Lion Returns to Help Keep Pembrokeshire Safe During Peak Summer Season

Transport for Wales joins police partners to tackle anti-social behaviour across Tenby and surrounding communities

A multi-agency campaign aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour across Pembrokeshire's busiest tourist destinations is returning for another summer, with Transport for Wales joining police partners to help keep residents and visitors safe during the school holidays.

Operation Lion, first introduced in 2015, brings together Transport for Wales (TfW), British Transport Police (BTP)and Dyfed-Powys Police in a coordinated effort to deter crime and tackle disorder as visitor numbers increase across the region.

The initiative will operate throughout the six-week summer holiday period, with enhanced patrols taking place every weekend from Friday through to Sunday.

Visible patrols on rail services and in local communities

As part of the operation, British Transport Police officers will maintain a visible presence across the area, working alongside local officers from Dyfed-Powys Police.

Transport for Wales security teams will also increase patrols on rail services operating between Tenby and Pembroke Dock, while additional staff will provide reassurance on the final evening service to Carmarthen.

The coordinated approach is designed to prevent incidents before they occur while enabling a rapid response should problems arise.

Focus on prevention and community reassurance

Operation Lion has been established to address the seasonal increase in anti-social behaviour that can accompany large numbers of visitors during the summer months.

The campaign aims to reduce incidents including public disorder, vandalism and other forms of disruptive behaviour while creating a safer environment through high-visibility policing and security patrols.

Alongside enforcement activity, partners will continue engaging with local communities and businesses to strengthen relationships and promote responsible behaviour.

Proven partnership approach

Since its launch more than a decade ago, Operation Lion has become an established part of the summer policing strategy across Pembrokeshire.

According to the partners involved, the initiative has contributed to a reduction in anti-social behaviour during previous holiday periods, with local businesses and residents reporting increased confidence as a result of the enhanced police and security presence.

Commitment to a safe and welcoming summer

Simon Turton, Security Manager at Transport for Wales, said the initiative demonstrates the value of organisations working together to protect communities and support the region's thriving visitor economy.

"We're proud to once again support Operation Lion alongside our colleagues from British Transport Police and Dyfed-Powys Police."

"This initiative is a great example of partnership working in action. Through a proactive, community-focused approach, we have helped reduce anti-social behaviour in Tenby and across Pembrokeshire over the years, and we are committed to building on that success again this summer."

"Our aim is simple: to ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy everything these fantastic areas have to offer in a safe and welcoming environment."

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With thousands of additional visitors expected to travel to Pembrokeshire over the coming weeks, Operation Lion will once again provide a coordinated policing and security presence aimed at ensuring the county remains a safe destination throughout the busy summer season.