BID TO PROTECT STUDENTS

AN OPERATION aimed at protecting overseas students visiting Sussex has been re-started this year by police.

They say Operation Columbus will continue throughout the summer into early autumn.

The operation aims to provide a safe environment for visiting international students.

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Inspector Gary Keating, overseeing the operation within East Sussex, said: 'Foreign students are vital for the area's tourist industry and we want them to be safe - and feel safe - when they visit us.

'We want them to enjoy their stay and the facilities available and to go home with only good memories.'

The hard-hitting message from East Sussex Division is simply 'target a student and we will target you.'

Police action as part of Operation Columbus will feature high visibility policing in hotspot areas, specially trained investigators to deal with incidents involving foreign students, dedicated 'Op Columbus' patrols, plain clothes surveillance and use of CCTV.

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Host families are asked to play their part by passing on good advice to their students such as not to walk home alone at night, only take essentials when going out and do not carry unnecessary cash or valuables.