Violent crime on Britain's railways increased by 16% in the last financial year, according to figures released by the British Transport Police (BTP). There were 13,591 offences recorded in 2018-19, including attempted murder and assault, up from 11,671 the previous year.
Overall crime on the rail network also rose, with 68,313 offences recorded between April 2018 and March 2019, a 12% increase on the previous year. The BTP said the rise was partly due to record passenger numbers and the increasing commercialisation of stations, which has led to more theft, antisocial behaviour and shoplifting.
Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock said preventing serious violence and knife crime remained a top priority. He noted that the chance of becoming a victim of crime on the railway is very low, but any rise is of concern. The force is tackling the issue through problem-solving initiatives at key locations.
The BTP's north of England division recorded the highest number of overall offences (27,377) and violent crimes (5,729). There were six homicides on British railways in 2018-19, including the murder of 51-year-old Lee Pomeroy, who was stabbed to death after an argument on a train.
The force also reported a 32% increase in lifesaving interventions for vulnerable people, including those in mental health crisis. Officers and rail staff performed 2,529 such interventions. Hanstock said the railway still attracts those in mental health crisis, and staff work hard to safeguard them and help them access appropriate care.
County lines drug trafficking remains a particular concern. The BTP has set up dedicated teams to share intelligence with national partners, including the National Crime Agency, resulting in drug seizures and the protection of vulnerable youngsters from criminal networks.
