Police have begun a crackdown on drug related crime and violence with a series of raids at properties across Stevenage today.
As part of an anti-drugs operation called Operation Estray, officers from across Herts broke down the doors of properties in Roundmead, York Road and Penn Road.
Police dog Max and his handler PC Andy Blacklock searched the properties for drugs during the operation and officers wore protective vests to guard against knives.
At one address in York Road, two men were arrested, one for possession of drugs, the other for possession of an offensive weapon.
A third person was arrested for failing to respond to a police warrant.
At a property in Roundmead, a large machete and a hammer were recovered from behind the occupant’s door and a small quantity of heroin was found.
Speaking exclusively to the Comet, Detective Sergeant John Harlock said he believes a recent spike in violent crime and drug related crime in Stevenage is due to rival gangs, operating from London, and preying on vulnerable people and those addicted to drugs in Stevenage.
He said the recent stabbing of police dog Finn helped prompt the crackdown.
“Today has been a success in as much as we’ve sent a clear message to those using the town as a base to supply drugs we will not tolerate that kind of behaviour,” he said.
“Today was a direct response to recent issues we’ve been having including the recent stabbing of police dog Finn and shows we want to protect the community and make sure people can have as safe a life as possible in Stevenage.”
He appealed for anyone who has suspicions about drug related activity to call him on 101.
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