Police chief issues strong message after another week of violence in Sheffield

Sheffield’s new police chief has issued a warning to gangs responsible for a spate of shootings in the city.
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District Commander Una Jennings, responsible for the policing of Sheffield, spoke out after a man was shot on Abbydale Road on Monday night in the latest of a spate of gun attacks in and around the city suburb.

She said the shootings are gang related and targeted.

Shooting on Abbeydale Road Sheffield. Farrar Road.Shooting on Abbeydale Road Sheffield. Farrar Road.
Shooting on Abbeydale Road Sheffield. Farrar Road.

A specialist ‘armed crime team’ is involved in the work to combat the violence.

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Chf Supt Jennings said: “I understand the concern that incidents involving firearms cause within our communities.

Sheffield's District Commander, Chief Superintendent Una JenningsSheffield's District Commander, Chief Superintendent Una Jennings
Sheffield's District Commander, Chief Superintendent Una Jennings

“Our teams are working tirelessly to identify those involved.

"Although enquiries into Monday night's incident are in the early stages, we believe the recent firearms discharges in the Abbeydale Road and Nether Edge areas are linked, and have been targeted attacks.

“The people involved are likely to be known to each other and the violence is thought to stem from the criminal enterprise of organised crime groups.

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“I will not accept or tolerate this sort of criminality, and neither should local residents who are simply wishing to go about their daily lives.

“That is why we have a number of proactive measures in place to combat violent crime, including investment in a new, dedicated Armed Crime Team to respond to the threat posed by gun crime. This team has been in operation for a number of months and has already delivered extremely encouraging results.

“This area of the city remains a key area of focus for us and you will continue to see an increased, high visibility presence here in the coming days and weeks. These officers are here to provide reassurance and make sure you feel safe. If you are concerned, I'd encourage you to speak to them. They are there to support you.

“We all need to work together to combat this level of criminality and we need people to come forward with the information they hold.

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“If you have any information which may assist the investigation team with their ongoing enquiries regarding last night's incident, please call us.”

Contact South Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote incident number 866 of September 7 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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