Police jetski used in crime crackdown (From Echo)

Police jetski used in crime crackdown

12:00pm Monday 30th June 2008 in

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MARINE officers will be using a new jet ski to patrol the shores off Southend and Castle Point this summer.

The Essex Police Marine Unit has been given the jet ski by watersports company Seadoo to help boost patrols along the county's coastline, promote safety and crack down on crime.

DC Simon Lofting, acting sergeant at the unit, which is based in Burnham, said the personal watercraft is a unique tool as it can reach more populated areas, such as beaches, that standard police boats would be unable to.

He said: "The summer time can see an increased number of incidents on the water.

"Officers will use it to promote water safety, prevent crime and accidents, enforce speed limits and crack down on those breaching water bylaws.

"It will also help us to interact with the boating community as we can pull up alongside other personal water crafts and talk to them."

The Seadoo GTI 4tec personal watercraft is on loan to the unit for a year, although it is hoped this will be extended.