Balaclavas could be banned in more city centres across the UK due to concerns over their use in "thuggish" behaviour, including robberies, burglaries, and drug dealing. Police nationwide have stated that face coverings are hindering efforts to identify potential offenders.
Newport, Coventry, Stafford, and Wolverhampton are among the cities where officials are exploring ways to strengthen existing powers to challenge those wearing balaclavas. Nottingham has already implemented a ban, enabling police to request the removal of face coverings if there is a reasonable belief they are being used to conceal identity for criminal activity or anti-social behaviour. Refusal could result in a £70 fixed penalty notice or a maximum fine of £1,000.
Newport councillors have proposed a ban with exemptions for religious reasons. This follows Operation Krypton, a joint police and council crackdown in Newport, which led to 321 arrests since July for crime and anti-social behaviour. Newport council is reviewing its current Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) and considering potential amendments to include face coverings, with exemptions for legitimate reasons such as religious, cultural, medical, occupational, weather, or personal safety.
The social media hashtag "no face no case" has been gaining traction, glorifying balaclavas as a method to avoid prosecution.