Shetland policing priorities and community concerns

Police in Shetland have addressed the balance between managing visible anti-social behavior and prioritizing high-harm crimes. Area commander Chris Sewell stated that while anti-social behavior attracts public attention, resources are being directed toward intelligence-led efforts to combat drug trafficking, domestic abuse, and sexual violence.

Sewell noted that illicit substances enter the islands via airports, ferry terminals, the postal service, and various vessels. He maintained that incident levels in Shetland remain relatively low compared to other parts of Scotland.

However, community concerns have been raised regarding specific incidents in the Lerwick Lanes, including underage drinking, vandalism, and aggressive behavior such as individuals spitting on residents’ property. These concerns have been compounded by reports of long wait times on the Police Scotland 101 non-emergency line. Sewell acknowledged that wait times have “more than doubled” in recent years as the force prioritizes “higher harm areas.”