Undercover police & venue staff join forces across West Yorkshire to stop sexual predators before they strike

West Yorkshire Police and the Mayor’s Women’s Safety Unit have officially launched Project Vigilant, a proactive safety operation funded by the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership.

Rather than responding solely after an offence has taken place, the initiative brings together police, local authorities, licensed venues, and public transport providers to identify concerning, predatory actions in public spaces and intervene early to keep people safe.

As part of the deployment, specially trained plain-clothed and uniformed officers are being stationed in busy nightspots and town centres across Leeds and West Yorkshire. Working alongside venue security, bar staff, and transport crews—who have received targeted training—officers are trained to recognise key red flags.

These warning signs include individuals following people, making unsolicited sexual comments, or attempting to isolate vulnerable individuals.

The operation forms a core part of the force's wider strategy to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

Figures show that over the past 12 months in West Yorkshire, 80 per cent of sexual assault victims were women, while 91 per cent of offenders were male.

Over 30 interventions made in first four weeks

The scheme has already demonstrated immediate results during initial trials. In its first four weeks of active deployment, Project Vigilant officers and venue partners executed more than 30 direct interventions, disrupting harmful behaviour and safeguarding potential victims.

West Yorkshire Police Lead for VAWG, Superintendent Phil Coward, emphasised that the initiative centres on early prevention: "Everyone has the right to feel safe when enjoying a night out or travelling through our towns and cities. Project Vigilant is about preventing harm before it happens.

“By identifying concerning behaviour early and intervening where necessary, we can help protect potential victims, disrupt offenders and create safer environments for everyone.

The Superintendent continued: "The success of this initiative relies on strong partnerships. By working closely with local authorities, venue staff, transport providers and businesses, we can better identify risks, support those who may be vulnerable and take action before offences occur.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, added that the project sends a clear message that predatory conduct will not be tolerated in the region: “We are committed to ensuring the safety of women and girls here in West Yorkshire. Predatory behaviours, negative attitudes, and misogyny will not be tolerated, and by working together, we can make sure it is called out when and where it occurs.

"Everybody deserves an environment where we can thrive without fear or having to look over their shoulders. This work will provide that added confidence and assurance.”

How to Report Concerns

Members of the public who experience or witness uncomfortable or predatory behaviour during a night out or while travelling are encouraged to report it immediately.

Concerns can be flagged directly to a police officer, venue staff, or door security, or submitted online via the West Yorkshire Police website.