A spate of serious and high-profile incidents in Ipswich over the last six months has prompted police to launch a new method of tackling crime in the town.

Ipswich Star: Police at the scene of a stabbing close to Wherstead Road in Ipswich. Picture: GREGG BROWNPolice at the scene of a stabbing close to Wherstead Road in Ipswich. Picture: GREGG BROWN

The force said it would be taking a proactive and concerted approach as it looks to reassure people following a series of attacks and robberies.

Since September Ipswich has been the location for two double stabbings, several incidents said to involve firearms, alleged arson attacks and a serious sexual assault, amongst other violent crimes.

Now Suffolk Constabulary is looking to disrupt crime and anti-social behaviour in a way which will provide “short term and long term results” for Ipswich.

Superintendent Kerry Cutler, head of policing in Ipswich, said the force and its partner agencies were determined to make a difference.

Ipswich Star: Floral tributes for Dean Stansby who was fatally wounded in an attack in Ancaster Road. Picture: MATT STOTTFloral tributes for Dean Stansby who was fatally wounded in an attack in Ancaster Road. Picture: MATT STOTT (Image: Archant)

“We won’t tolerate criminality or anti-social behaviour in the town. Our priority is to ensure we keep the town safe for everyone and ensure people go about their business safely and without intimidation,” she said.

“Although making arrests will be an integral part of the operation, there is more to it than that. We’re really keen to divert young people away from a cycle of crime, violence and ASB and with that goal in mind we are working with a range of partner agencies including Ipswich Borough Council, the youth offending service and social care services.”

Last week police officers in Ipswich arrested eight people when they executed search warrants and address checks in the town. The charges related to drug offences and anti-social behaviour, with a boy aged 15 amongst those taken into custody.

Supt. Cutler also addressed concerns from members of the public about the recent violent incidents.

Ipswich Star: Serious violent crimes in Ipswich over the last six monthsSerious violent crimes in Ipswich over the last six months (Image: Archant)

“We have officers and staff working hard to make an impact,” she said. “In addition, we are always keen to continue to work with and listen to our local residents who, quite rightly, express their concern to us about drug dealing in Ipswich.

“We also rely on the intelligence that members of the public give us. That information can help us remove drugs and violence from our communities.

“If you know of suspicious activity taking place in your locality please let us know using the 101 number and we will respond.”