FGM operation rolled out at Leeds Bradford Airport

Friday, 7 September 2018 16:00

West Yorkshire Police has been supporting a national operation at airports and ports across the country raising awareness of female genital mutilation (FGM).

Operation Limelight ran from 24 August to 7 September and West Yorkshire Police was one of 14 police forces involved. The activity in West Yorkshire focused on raising awareness both amongst staff and passengers at Leeds Bradford Airport.

During the operation, airport and cabin crew staff were educated on what FGM is and signs to look out for that a child may be being taken abroad or returning from a trip for the purpose of carrying out the procedure.

Police also carried out enhanced activity in public areas of the airport, including putting out messaging on electronic screens, to inform travellers passing through the airport.

Detective Chief Inspector Fran Naughton of West Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Team, said: “This operation coincided with the end of the school summer holidays – one of the busiest times of the year at Leeds Bradford Airport.

“It is important that people are aware of this abhorrent practice and what they should do if they have concerns for themselves, a friend or family member or any child that they come into contact with.

“Regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales have a mandatory duty to report known cases of FGM in under 18-year-olds to the police; however we know that this offence still remains under-reported. By educating airline and airport staff, we hope this will help increase reporting and in turn prevent girls in the region from being subjected to this mutilation.”

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