Female police officers have begun patrolling popular jogging routes in disguise as runners to confront men who honk at women exercising outdoors.
Inspector Liz Warner emphasized that misogynistic remarks and predatory behavior are unacceptable, noting that women have long felt compelled to alter their habits for safety while the responsibility for change lies with perpetrators.
During a recent encounter, a lorry driver was informed that his horn had been used to intimidate female joggers and warned that such conduct could constitute a criminal offence under an ongoing anti‑harassment operation.
The driver expressed surprise, claiming he believed a mechanical issue caused the noise, while officers reiterated the seriousness of targeting women in public spaces.
In a separate incident, a van driver apologized, citing his long‑term marriage, but was reminded that marital status does not excuse harassing conduct.
Amendments to the Public Order Act now classify harassment, alarm or distress based on a person’s sex as an aggravating offence, allowing courts to impose sentences of up to two years.
Six covert operations have been conducted so far, with harassing behavior identified in three of those instances.
Authorities plan to extend the initiative across the wider police force area in the coming months, aiming to deter future incidents and reinforce community safety.
