An intensified police operation has been rolled out across Wolverhampton as part of a wider crackdown on gang activity, retail crime and anti-social behaviour, according to West Midlands police.
Today’s Op Advance has seen months of planning to ensure maximum impact as we tackle the crimes affecting our city and issues that we know impact our communities.
Chief Superintendent Anthony Tagg, Wolverhampton Police
The initiative, known as “Op Advance,” began today the 29th of April and involves a surge in officers and specialist units across the city for 24 hours of targeted enforcement. The operation forms part of a force-wide strategy delivered across the West Midlands throughout the year.
The move comes amid ongoing concerns around crime levels in Wolverhampton. Recent data from Police.Uk show that 195 crimes were committed in Wolverhampton city centre of February 2026. Shoplifting made up 22 of these crimes, with 81 being due to violence and sexual offences.
As part of the operation, West Midlands Police have reintroduced their Mounted unit, meaning horses will once again patrol Wolverhampton’s streets. The move is intended to boost visibility and public reassurance, particularly in busy areas where officers on horseback can engage more directly with residents and deter criminal activity.
We are training the horses in new environments to get them used to the area. This is part of our new Op Advance initiative.
PC Turton, West Midlands Police.
The Wolverhampton team will also be out in local neighbourhoods alongside specialist officers and staff from departments including police dogs, the mounted unit and traffic officers.