A male, who was wanted by the police, has been arrested after he was caught and issued with an Antisocial Behaviour Warning for begging by Barking and Dagenham Council’s Community Safety Enforcement Team.



Despite being warned that begging was prohibited in Barking Town Centre, the male, through joint work between the enforcement officers and CCTV operatives, was caught begging in several places including at Barking Station, and outside Asda and Superdrug.



On the third occasion, enforcement officers were joined by the Safer Neighbourhood Police team to issue him with an Antisocial Behaviour Warning, but after his name was taken, it was quickly realised that he was wanted for more serious matters and was ultimately arrested.



Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “This is a prime example of our Enforcement Team and CCTV operatives working really closely with local police officers to cut down on antisocial behaviour and help keep our streets safe.



“I would like to thank all of the officers involved for their quick thinking and helping to get this man arrested.”



The council and police are aware that begging is an issue across the borough and alongside partner organisations, they’re working to support these people with housing and benefits or taking further action if individuals are not cooperating.