Major Police Operation in Dewsbury and Kirklees Leads to 20 Arrests
In one of the most extensive law enforcement operations carried out this year, West Yorkshire Police made 20 arrests across Dewsbury and Kirklees on Thursday, October 23, 2025, as part of a large-scale crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour. The action, led by Superintendent Warren Pitman of Kirklees Police, aimed to disrupt organised criminal activity, tackle public disorder, and restore community confidence.
The operation — described by local authorities as the largest of its kind in 2025 — involved multiple police units, including neighbourhood officers, mounted police, and specialist task forces. Raids were conducted at several properties in Dewsbury, Huddersfield, and Almondbury, targeting individuals involved in drug trafficking, theft, and organised crime.
Coordinated Police Effort Across the District
The day began with a street briefing outside Dewsbury Town Hall, where officers gathered under the leadership of Superintendent Pitman before dispersing across the district. Their mission: to tackle a “broad spectrum of offences” that had been affecting residents and businesses in recent months.
By the end of the day, 20 suspects were in custody, with seven already charged with various criminal offences. Among those arrested were drug dealers, wanted fugitives, and repeat offenders linked to shoplifting, public disorder, and other anti-social acts.
In Dewsbury alone, officers made a significant discovery — 700 suspected illegal fireworks were seized from a residential address. The explosives were believed to be part of an underground trade network operating ahead of the winter festive season. Police say the seizure prevented potential accidents and disruption within the community.
Mounted Patrols and Town Centre Operations
Throughout the operation, mounted police officers patrolled Dewsbury town centre to assist the Town Centre Proactive Team, which focuses on reducing anti-social behaviour, public drinking, and street-level crimes. Their visible presence reassured local shopkeepers and residents, many of whom have raised concerns about rising petty crime in recent months.
Officers on the ground arrested one individual in the town centre and took enforcement action against four others for breaching Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) and violating the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) — regulations designed to maintain order in designated urban zones.
Focus on Community Safety
Speaking after the operation, Superintendent Warren Pitman praised the coordinated effort of all officers involved and reiterated the police force’s commitment to maintaining public safety.
“This operation demonstrates our dedication to tackling the full range of criminality in Kirklees,” Superintendent Pitman said. “From organised gangs to everyday anti-social behaviour, we are sending a clear message — our communities will not be held hostage by those who choose to break the law.”
He added that this kind of large-scale enforcement would continue as part of an ongoing campaign to strengthen trust between the police and residents, particularly in neighbourhoods that have been hardest hit by crime.
Disrupting Organised Crime Networks
Police sources confirmed that part of the day’s activity in Almondbury was specifically designed to disrupt organised criminal gangs (OCGs) suspected of drug distribution and violent offences. Several properties were searched, and evidence — including mobile phones, cash, and paraphernalia associated with drug supply — was seized.
These efforts form part of a wider regional strategy led by West Yorkshire Police and supported by the National Crime Agency (NCA) to dismantle criminal networks operating across the north of England.
Support from the Community
The large-scale operation has received widespread support from residents and business owners, many of whom have praised police visibility and swift action. Dewsbury town centre traders, who have long voiced concerns about theft, vandalism, and street drinking, said the police crackdown provided much-needed reassurance.
One shop owner told local media, “It’s good to finally see such a strong police presence. We’ve been dealing with shoplifters and troublemakers for months, and it feels like someone is finally listening.”
Looking Ahead: Continued Police Action
Authorities confirmed that further arrests and investigations are expected in the coming days as evidence collected during Thursday’s operation is processed. Several suspects remain under investigation, and police teams are following up on leads connected to drug supply, illegal trade, and property crime.
Superintendent Pitman emphasized that while Thursday’s operation was a major success, it represented just one step in an ongoing effort to make Kirklees safer.
“Our message is simple — we will continue to take robust action against anyone involved in crime or anti-social behaviour,” he said. “These operations will not be a one-off; they are part of our long-term commitment to rebuilding pride and safety in our communities.”
Reclaiming the Streets
The success of this coordinated crackdown highlights the growing importance of multi-agency cooperation between local councils, businesses, and residents in combating crime. As Dewsbury and Kirklees continue to face challenges associated with urban disorder, substance abuse, and youth crime, such proactive policing sends a clear signal that offenders will be pursued and communities protected.
The 20 arrests made on October 23 mark a significant milestone for law enforcement in West Yorkshire, showcasing how intelligence-led operations can deliver tangible results. For the people of Dewsbury, it represents hope — a sign that the police are not only listening but taking firm action to reclaim the streets from those who threaten public safety.
