A police operation is targeting sexual predators during Freshers’ Week.
Thames Valley Police are focusing on university areas, including Reading, as part of Project Vigilant, which aims to keep students safe from sexually predatory behaviour.
Project Vigilant uses both uniformed and plain-clothed officers to patrol night-time hotspots, identifying individuals who may pose a risk to others.
Officers intervene where necessary to deter, disrupt, or arrest those displaying concerning behaviour.
In the year ending March 2026, more than 260 people in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire came to the attention of Project Vigilant officers.
Of those identified, around 35 per cent had a recorded history of violence or sexual offences, including previous physical or sexual violence.
The operation is being deployed during Freshers’ Weeks in areas surrounding the University of Reading, as well as the University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University, and Buckinghamshire New University.
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Violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains a significant challenge for police across the country.
In the year ending March 2023, more than one million VAWG offences were recorded nationwide, equating to nearly 3,000 offences every day.
Detective Inspector Laura Gregory, who leads Project Vigilant, said: "Freshers’ Week should be an enjoyable experience for students, without fear of harassment, unwanted attention or sexual offending.
"Project Vigilant is designed to identify and disrupt predatory behaviour before offences take place.
"Our officers will be out across the night-time economy, engaging with those whose behaviour causes concern and taking robust action where offences are committed.
"We want everyone to feel safe on a night out.
"We’re here to protect people, prevent harm and ensure those looking to target others know they are not welcome."
Thames Valley Police have emphasised that plain-clothed officers only operate in public spaces and do not enter licensed premises.
They always patrol in pairs and will only approach members of the public if there is an immediate threat to safety or to intervene in suspicious activity.
Project Vigilant was launched by Thames Valley Police in 2019 following a series of sexual assaults linked to the night-time economy.
Since then, more than 20 police forces across England and Wales have adopted the scheme as part of broader efforts to prevent sexual violence and improve safety in public spaces.
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