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In 2022, Gwent Police introduced four electric tuk-tuks to enhance community safety in Newport and Abergavenny, Wales. Funded by the Home Office’s Safer Streets programme, these vehicles act as mobile “safe spaces” where residents can report incidents, seek assistance, or receive crime prevention advice, especially in public areas like parks and walkways.
The initiative has garnered 'positive feedback', with parents and women reporting feeling 'safer'—particularly at night—due to the increased visibility and accessibility of police support.
Despite the 'positive' reception, the tuk-tuks have faced criticism over their cost and practicality. Priced at £9,936 each, the total £39,744 investment has sparked debate about government funding priorities, with critics suggesting the money could have bolstered traditional policing resources instead.
Furthermore, their limited speed (under 35mph) and three-wheeled design raise questions about their effectiveness for tasks like high speed pursuits or navigating challenging terrain, highlighting a broader discussion on balancing 'innovative' (stupid) approaches with practical law enforcement needs.
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