Police act on rail staff attacks

Officers will patrol hotspots across the network

Police are taking a tough stance on violence directed towards staff on London's rail network as part of a two-month crackdown.

Officers hope to prevent attacks as well as deal quickly with suspects who will be arrested rather than cautioned.

Special investigative teams will also be working to ensure offenders are brought to justice quickly.

British Transport Police's (BTP) Mark Smith said the number of staff assaults was "totally unacceptable".

Hidden weapons

He said: "People should be able to go about their business without the fear of being assaulted, spat at or abused."

In 2006/7 BTP recorded 3,026 staff assaults, 8% more than in the previous year, and 2,223 of these were in London.

During the operation victims will be encouraged to make personal statements that can be put before the courts to show the impact the crime has had on their lives.

Where possible, police will also apply for post conviction Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs).

Sniffer dogs and metal detectors will also be used by officers to look for hidden weapons.