Shrubbery for Security: A Metropolitan Police Suggestion
The Metropolitan Police has recently released a leaflet suggesting various ways to improve home security, including the use of shrubs to deter intruders. The leaflet proposes 17 different varieties of shrubs that can be used to create a secure perimeter around a property.
Climbing roses, which can be trained to cover walls and fences, making it difficult for intruders to climb over.
Currants, which are thorny and can make it uncomfortable for intruders to approach the property.
Oranges, which are prickly and can deter intruders from attempting to enter the property.
Privet shrubs, which are dense and can make it difficult for intruders to navigate through the area.Additional Security Measures
In addition to using shrubs, the Metropolitan Police also suggests installing other security measures to improve home security.
This is a significant drop from the 75 per cent in 2019. The proportion of reported burglaries attended by officers in London in 2022 had fallen to just 50 per cent.
*Increased workload and resource constraints*: The Metropolitan Police Service has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a rise in violent crime and a growing demand for policing services. This has led to increased workload and resource constraints, making it difficult for officers to respond to all reported burglaries.
*Changing nature of burglary*: The way burglars operate has changed in recent years, with many using technology to commit crimes and avoid detection. This has made it more difficult for police to respond effectively to burglary incidents.
*Lack of community engagement*: The decline in community policing initiatives and engagement has led to a lack of trust and cooperation between the police and the public.
The Met’s Clear-Up Rate: A National Disappointment
The Metropolitan Police Service (Met) has been criticized for its clear-up rate, with Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stating that it is the worst in the country. This criticism has sparked a heated debate about the effectiveness of the Met’s policing strategies and the need for reform.
Increased public frustration and mistrust of the police
A sense of impunity among perpetrators, leading to increased crime rates
A lack of resources and funding for police forces, as they struggle to meet the demands of a complex and changing crime landscape
The Need for Reform
The Met’s clear-up rate is not an isolated issue.
Further details on this topic will be provided shortly.
