Arrests and extra patrols in Harrogate as Operation Tornado takes place
Burglary, drug dealing, and fraud suspects have been arrested in Harrogate during a focused policing operation, part of Operation Tornado, North Yorkshire Police’s ongoing effort to keep communities safe.
Last updated 12th Feb 2026
The operation saw high-visibility patrols in town centres and residential areas, with officers speaking to hundreds of residents while targeting offences that matter most to local communities.
Key results from Harrogate
- Two burglary arrests as part of ongoing efforts to reduce residential break-ins.
- Drugs warrant in Jennyfields, resulting in the arrest of a man on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, which were seized.
- Arrests for other offences, including rape, breaching a restraining order, and fraud.
- Seizure of counterfeit goods, with several large bags of illegal tobacco and vape products worth £2,000–£3,000 removed from a shop in partnership with Trading Standards.
- Patrols in residential areas such as Bilton and around Harrogate town centre to address anti-social behaviour and drug use.
- Retail crime patrols, working with local businesses to prevent shoplifting.
- Joint visits with immigration officials, recovering an offensive weapon at one business.
- Deployments at Harrogate station targeting criminals using the rail network.
- Road policing patrols stopping vehicles for motoring offences, including drink driving, uninsured driving, and mobile phone use.
Inspector Greg Davies of Harrogate Neighbourhood Policing Team said:
“Operation Tornado allows us to intensify our resources in specific areas and tackle the issues communities care about. While yesterday’s activity has been highly effective, this builds on policing we do 365 days a year. We’re listening to residents, targeting criminality, and making Harrogate a safer place.”
Operation Tornado runs monthly across different areas of North Yorkshire, prioritising community concerns and tackling crime with a sustained, high-impact approach.
Inspector Davies added:
“It was great to meet residents while on the beat, hear their concerns, and show that policing continues every day of the year. We will keep arresting offenders, patrolling communities, and making North Yorkshire a tougher place for criminals.”